Health and Safety Policy — Tufnell Park Man with Van Services
Policy overview
This Health and Safety policy sets out the approach adopted by Tufnell Park Man with Van and associated rubbish removal teams to protect employees, contractors, clients and the public. The policy applies to all activities undertaken by our man-and-van removal crews and rubbish collection services. Our objective is to provide a safe, reliable rubbish clearance and removal service while meeting statutory obligations and accepted industry standards.
Statement of intent: We aim to eliminate or reduce the risk of injury or ill health arising from waste handling, loading, transport and disposal operations. All staff will receive training, information and protective equipment required to perform tasks safely. The company accepts its responsibility for implementing control measures and continually improving safety performance across man-with-van and rubbish clearance work.
Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. The management team has overall responsibility for establishing safe systems of work and ensuring compliance. Supervisors and team leaders are responsible for daily risk assessment and monitoring. Employees and subcontractors engaged in man with van duties and domestic/commercial rubbish removal are required to follow instructions, report hazards and participate in training.
Risk assessment and safe systems
Risk assessments are carried out for all routine activities including vehicle loading, furniture dismantling, bulky rubbish disposal and site access. Where specific hazards are identified (for example sharps, asbestos-suspect materials or hazardous liquids) additional controls are implemented. Controls include segregation of waste, use of suitable containers, and clear labelling of hazardous items prior to transport.
Control measures used by the removal and rubbish service include mechanical aids where possible, team lifting techniques, traffic management at collection points and the use of slip-resistant footwear. We maintain a documented hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). This helps minimise manual handling injuries and vehicle-related incidents.
Key elements of our safety systems include a schedule of routine vehicle inspections, secure load restraint procedures, and a permit-to-work approach for unusual or high-risk operations. Regular toolbox talks and documented briefings before each job ensure everyone understands the specific risks and controls for that day.
Training, PPE and competency
All staff involved in man-with-van services and rubbish removal receive induction training covering manual handling, correct use of lifting equipment, spill response and waste segregation. Job-specific training is provided for those handling hazardous waste streams. Records are retained to demonstrate competence and currency.
Personal protective equipment is provided based on task risk assessment and includes gloves, hi-vis clothing, protective footwear and eye protection where necessary. PPE is maintained and replaced as needed. Staff are expected to use the provided PPE and report defects without delay.
Our approach emphasises that competence is maintained through a combination of periodic refresher training, practical supervision and performance reviews. New or temporary staff receive enhanced supervision until they demonstrate safe performance in the duties of removal, junk clearance and waste transport.
Operational controls for rubbish and waste handling
Operational procedures set out clear steps for the handling of different waste types. These include separation of recyclable materials, secure containment of loose waste, appropriate handling of bulky items and precautions for potentially dangerous materials. The company uses approved disposal routes and engages authorised waste transfer stations and recycling facilities to ensure responsible removal.
Vehicle safety is a priority: drivers follow defensive driving standards, ensure loads are secured, and avoid overloading. Pre-shift vehicle checks and documented defect reporting form part of the transport safety regime for our man and van fleet. Emergency procedures for breakdowns and incidents are in place and communicated to all operatives.
Monitoring and review: Safety performance is monitored through incident reporting, near-miss records and periodic audits. Corrective actions are implemented promptly and reviewed for effectiveness. This policy is reviewed at least annually and updated if there are significant changes in operations, legislation or if an incident reveals a need for change.
Legal compliance and continuous improvement
The company recognises legal responsibilities for waste management, transport and workplace safety. Compliance with current health and safety law, waste regulations and transport requirements forms the baseline for our operations. We commit to cooperating with regulators and keeping documentation to demonstrate compliance where required.
Incident reporting and investigation: All incidents, injuries and near-misses are reported immediately and investigated to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. Lessons learned are shared across teams to support continuous improvement in the safety of our man-with-van and rubbish removal services.
Final statement: This policy is endorsed by senior management and applies to all staff, contractors and anyone working on behalf of the company. By following the procedures and controls described, we aim to provide a dependable rubbish removal service while minimising risk to people and the environment. The company will continue to adopt best practices and invest in training and equipment to maintain high safety standards.
