Holland Park Man with Van – Health and Safety Policy

Holland Park Man with Van is committed to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety across all operations within our rubbish company service area and associated waste removal activities. This policy sets out our responsibilities and practical measures to protect employees, contractors, clients, members of the public and any third parties affected by our work. Our approach is preventative, risk-based and aligned with relevant industry standards and statutory duties.

We recognise that safe working practices are fundamental to a reliable rubbish collection service area. The policy applies to all employees and sub-contractors engaged by our business, whether operating from parked vehicles, customer premises or while transporting and disposing of household and commercial waste. Health and safety performance is a core element of our operational management and business planning.

Roles and Responsibilities

Management is responsible for ensuring adequate resources, training and monitoring are in place. Supervisors and team leaders must ensure safe systems of work are followed on every job. Employees and operatives are required to work safely, report hazards and follow instructions. Key responsibilities include:

• Carrying out and recording routine risk assessments.
• Using appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Reporting accidents, near misses and unsafe conditions promptly.

Risk Assessment and Control Measures

All operations are subject to documented risk assessments that identify hazards specific to waste transport, loading, manual handling and vehicle operation within a rubbish collection service area. Controls are proportionate and practical, including safe lifting techniques, tool and equipment checks, and safe access and egress procedures. We apply the hierarchy of controls: eliminate, substitute, engineer, administrate and use PPE as a last resort.

Vehicle Safety and Equipment

Vehicles used in our waste disposal service are maintained to manufacturer standards and inspected before use. Load security and weight distribution are checked to prevent overturning and spillage. Drivers hold relevant licences and undergo competency checks for van and waste handling operations. Regular maintenance records and vehicle safety checks form part of our control regime.

Loading and unloading procedures are documented and rehearsed. Where mechanical aids are available, they are used to reduce manual handling. Operatives are trained in hazard recognition related to sharp objects, asbestos risks, biological hazards and hazardous household substances that may be encountered during a rubbish collection or skip-type clearance.

Training, PPE and Safe Working Practices

Training is a continuous programme covering manual handling, safe vehicle operation, hazardous waste awareness and emergency response. We ensure that all staff receive refresher training at intervals appropriate to the tasks they perform. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, high-visibility clothing, safety boots and eye protection are supplied and must be worn where required.

Waste Segregation and Environmental Controls

Our rubbish removal and disposal practices emphasise correct segregation of recyclable material, general waste and hazardous items. We maintain procedures for safe transfer of waste to authorised facilities and ensure spill kits and containment measures are available to prevent environmental contamination. Environmental protection is considered alongside personal safety in all activities.

Specific protocols exist for handling sharps, chemicals, electrical items and bulky waste. These measures reduce the likelihood of injury and ensure compliance with disposal obligations within the wider waste management service area.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All incidents, including near misses, are reported, investigated and recorded. The objective of investigations is to identify root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Emergency procedures cover first aid, vehicle incidents, fires and significant spills, with designated personnel trained to lead initial responses.

Monitoring and review of our safety performance is undertaken through regular inspections, audits and management reviews. Performance indicators include incident rates, completion of statutory checks, training records and corrective action closure. We adopt a continual improvement mindset to evolve our health and safety arrangements in line with operational experience and legal expectations.

Legal compliance and cooperation: Holland Park Man with Van maintains compliance with applicable health, safety and environmental requirements as part of our operating mandate. We work collaboratively with regulatory bodies when necessary, and ensure documentation is available for inspection. This policy is reviewed at regular intervals and revised when significant changes to operations, legislation or technology occur.

Communication and Worker Involvement

We promote open communication on safety matters and encourage worker involvement in identifying risks and developing solutions. Toolbox talks, briefings and accessible policy documentation support a culture where safety concerns are raised without fear of reprisal.

Scope: This policy applies to all activities undertaken by Holland Park Man with Van within our rubbish collection, disposal and clearance service area, including contracted work. It does not act as an operational manual but sets out the health and safety principles and commitments which govern our procedures.

Approval: The policy is endorsed by senior management and is effective from the date of issue until superseded by a revised edition following review. All personnel are expected to familiarise themselves with and adhere to the contents of this policy to maintain a safe working environment for everyone.