This health and safety policy sets out how Man and a Van Surrey manages risk, protects people, and maintains safe working practices throughout every move. Our aim is to provide a reliable man and van service while keeping customers, staff, contractors, and the public safe at all times. We believe that safety is not an extra task; it is a core part of how we plan, lift, transport, and deliver every job.

We are committed to meeting our responsibilities by identifying hazards early, reducing avoidable risks, and maintaining a safe working environment. This includes safe vehicle use, careful handling of goods, and clear communication before, during, and after each move. Our safety procedures apply whether the work involves a single item, a full house move, or commercial transport.

All work is completed with attention to risk control, proper preparation, and consistent standards. We expect everyone involved in the move to act responsibly, report concerns promptly, and support a culture of safety. By doing this, Man and a Van Surrey helps ensure that every service is completed efficiently and with minimal disruption.

We begin each assignment by assessing the job type, access conditions, item weight, and any possible challenges such as stairs, narrow hallways, fragile goods, or limited parking. Where necessary, we adjust the work method to reduce strain and avoid accidents. This may include using extra lifting support, planning the load order carefully, or scheduling additional time to carry out the move safely.

Manual handling is one of the most important areas of our policy. Staff are trained to lift with care, use correct posture, and avoid unnecessary twisting, overreaching, or carrying loads that are too heavy for one person. When appropriate, items are moved by two people or with suitable equipment. Protecting health and preventing injury are always treated as priorities.

Vehicles are kept in a roadworthy condition and checked regularly to help reduce the risk of breakdowns, collisions, or unsafe loading. Loads are secured to prevent shifting during transit, and drivers are expected to follow safe driving practices at all times. Seat belts, mirrors, tyres, brakes, and lights are monitored to support both driver safety and public safety.

When handling customers’ belongings, we take care to prevent damage, contamination, or unnecessary exposure to danger. Fragile items are packed and placed separately, sharp objects are managed safely, and heavy goods are loaded in a controlled way. If a property contains known risks such as blocked access, damp floors, low ceilings, or difficult terrain, these issues are considered before lifting begins.

We also require good housekeeping during each move. Walkways should be kept clear where possible, packaging materials should not create trip hazards, and items should be placed in a stable position. Clean work areas reduce the chance of slips, trips, and falls, especially when moving large or awkward furniture.

Personal protective equipment is used when required and may include gloves, safety footwear, or high-visibility clothing depending on the task. Although not every job needs the same equipment, we choose suitable protection where it supports safe working. Our approach is practical and proportionate, focusing on real hazards rather than routine formality.

Communication is essential to safe operations. Team members are expected to share relevant information before starting work, including any access concerns, item sensitivities, or special handling needs. Customers may also be asked to highlight anything that could affect safe loading or unloading. Clear communication helps reduce mistakes and allows the move to be planned properly.

If a situation becomes unsafe, work may be paused until the issue is resolved. This could involve moving obstacles, improving lighting, revising the loading method, or waiting for safer conditions. No task should be completed at the expense of safety, and no one should feel pressured to continue when the risk level is too high.

We also expect safe behaviour around fatigue and physical limits. Long or demanding jobs can increase the chance of poor judgement or injury, so breaks are taken when needed and workloads are managed sensibly. The objective is to maintain consistent safety standards throughout the day, not only at the beginning of a shift.

Accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions are taken seriously and reviewed so that lessons can be learned. Any incident is recorded and assessed to identify practical improvements. Where changes are needed, we update methods, training, or equipment choices to help prevent a repeat. This commitment to continual improvement supports a safer and more dependable moving service.

Training is an important part of our health and safety approach. Staff are given instruction on manual handling, safe driving, load security, and the correct use of equipment. They are also encouraged to keep awareness high and to recognise when a job may need a different approach. Safe habits are reinforced through regular review and day-to-day supervision.

We recognise that safety depends on everyone playing a part. Customers, staff, and anyone assisting with the move should avoid unsafe actions, follow instructions where necessary, and report concerns immediately. This shared responsibility helps us provide a service that is not only efficient but also dependable and respectful of people and property.

This policy is reviewed regularly to make sure it remains suitable, effective, and aligned with our working practices. Changes may be made after incidents, operational updates, or improvements in equipment and procedure. By keeping our standards current, Man and a Van Surrey continues to deliver services with care, professionalism, and a strong focus on wellbeing.

We are committed to maintaining a workplace and service model where hazards are managed responsibly and safe conduct is expected at every stage. Health and safety is built into our planning, our loading process, our transport methods, and our customer interactions. Through this approach, we aim to protect people, property, and the quality of every move we complete.

In summary, our policy reflects a clear promise to work safely, act responsibly, and reduce risk wherever possible. Whether the task is straightforward or more complex, Man and a Van Surrey applies careful planning, good communication, and practical safeguards to support safe and successful results.