Health and Safety Policy for Toms Removals

Toms Removals is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of all employees, contractors and the customers we serve. This Health and Safety policy sets out the core principles that guide the Toms removal service in everyday operations, from planning and packing to loading, transit and unloading. The policy applies to all activities undertaken by the company and supports a proactive safety culture that values risk reduction, clear communication and continual improvement.

The management team at Tom's Removals accepts responsibility for providing a safe working environment and for implementing systems that reduce hazards. Responsibilities are assigned at every level to ensure that safety is integrated into decision-making. Staff must comply with this policy, attend training, use appropriate personal protective equipment and report hazards immediately. The aim is to prevent injury and ill health, protect customers’ property and preserve the integrity of every move.

To achieve this objective the company will undertake robust risk assessments before each job, record findings and apply control measures that reflect current best practice. Key elements include a documented risk assessment process, routine vehicle checks, safe loading procedures and task-specific instructions for manual handling. Policies are reviewed regularly and revised to address new information, changes in operations or feedback from qualified safety advisors. Regular checks ensure practical measures are being followed on site and in transit.

Training, Competence and Equipment

All team members with the Toms Removals brand are required to complete induction training and role-specific refresher courses. Training covers manual handling techniques, correct use of lifting aids, secure packing methods and safe use of moving equipment such as trolleys, ramps and vehicle restraints. Supervisors are provided with additional instruction on risk assessment and job supervision so they can lead safe operations and intervene when unsafe practices are observed.

Safe Working Practices

The Toms removals operations standard includes documented procedures for vehicle preparation, load distribution and securement, and the use of protective materials to prevent damage. Emergency procedures are in place for incidents such as vehicle breakdowns, injuries or hazardous material discovery, and staff receive guidance on reporting incidents promptly and cooperatively. Reporting and investigation processes are designed to learn from events and put in place corrective actions.

Personal protective equipment is supplied where risks cannot be eliminated. This includes gloves, high-visibility clothing and safety footwear. Equipment maintenance and inspection are scheduled and recorded to ensure lifting aids, straps and vehicle fixtures remain fit for purpose. The company takes a preventative approach: damaged or worn equipment is removed from service until properly repaired or replaced.

To foster a safe workplace the policy emphasises communication. Pre-job briefings identify hazards and controls, and staff are encouraged to stop work if they encounter unforeseen dangers. Regular toolbox talks and safety meetings reinforce safe behaviours and provide opportunities to discuss near-misses and improvements. The business supports an open culture where constructive reporting and suggestions for safer working practices are welcomed.

Manual handling is a principal risk in any moving operation. The Toms Removals team follows structured lifting techniques, uses two-person lifts where required and employs mechanical aids for heavy or awkward items. Customers are asked to highlight items of concern and to remove trip hazards from access routes before work begins. Where additional support is necessary, alternative plans are prepared to protect both staff and customer property.

Monitoring and review ensure the policy remains effective. Performance is measured through safety observations, incident statistics and review of training records. Management conducts periodic audits and adjusts resourcing or procedures in response to findings. The company is committed to continuous improvement and will update this policy as part of a cycle of planning, action, review and learning.

Commitment: Toms Removals pledges to maintain an active safety management approach that integrates risk controls, staff competence, appropriate equipment and open communication. Everyone employed by or working on behalf of Tom's Removals has a part to play in maintaining a safe working environment. This policy is supported by operational procedures, documented responsibilities and routine verification to ensure practice matches intent.

Scope and review: This policy covers all removal activities undertaken by the company and will be reviewed at least annually or sooner if operational changes occur. The emphasis is on practical measures, employee involvement and measurable outcomes. By maintaining these standards the business seeks to protect people, property and reputation while delivering reliable removal services.

All staff are expected to familiarise themselves with this policy and apply it in every task. The company will provide the necessary resources and oversight to make safe working the normal way of operating across the full range of Toms removal services.