Health and Safety Policy for Flat Clearance Hornsey

This Health and Safety policy sets out the standards and procedures adopted by our flat clearance team to manage risks associated with domestic and commercial waste removal. It reflects our commitment to safe, efficient flat clearance and rubbish removal activities across our service area. The policy applies to all staff, contractors and anyone working on behalf of the clearance company and covers manual handling, hazardous waste recognition, vehicle operations and site safety. Health and safety is central to every job we undertake and underpins our rubbish company operations.

Policy scope and responsibilities

The policy applies to all flat clearance operations, including full property clear-outs, single-item rubbish collections and communal waste clearance tasks. Company management retains ultimate responsibility for implementation, while supervisors and clearance operatives are responsible for daily compliance. Managers will ensure that risk assessments are conducted, that staff have appropriate training and that safe systems of work are in place. Employees must follow instructions, use provided equipment and report hazards immediately. The aim is to maintain a safe working environment during every waste clearance or rubbish removal project in our service area.

All personnel engaged in waste and clearance tasks must be aware of site-specific risks such as trip hazards, sharp objects within household refuse, electrical items, and potential biological contaminants. We operate a clear permit and sign-off system to ensure dangerous items are segregated and handled correctly. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory where identified by risk assessment, including gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing and appropriate footwear. Regular inspections and safety briefings will be recorded to confirm compliance and continual improvement.

Safe manual handling and ergonomics are critical to reducing injuries during furniture removals and bulky waste handling. Training in lifting techniques, team handling, and use of mechanical aids (trolleys, hoists and lifting straps) is provided to all operatives. Work plans for each clearance include assessment of load weights, carrying distances and potential awkward postures. A written procedure for reporting musculoskeletal concerns or near-miss incidents ensures that operational adjustments are made swiftly to mitigate repetitive strain or acute injury risks associated with rubbish collection tasks.

Vehicle safety and logistics for our clearance service are governed by vehicle maintenance schedules, driver competency checks and secure load policies. Drivers are trained in safe loading and unloading practices to prevent shifting loads and to minimise hazards during transit. The rubbish removal fleet is inspected daily, with records kept for maintenance, load restraint and incident reporting. Emergency procedures, including first aid response and breakdown protocols, are clearly documented and accessible to all team members.

Hazardous materials and environmental controls

Handling of potentially hazardous waste such as solvents, batteries, asbestos-containing materials, electrical waste and contaminated soft furnishings is strictly controlled. Where hazardous materials are suspected, clearance teams will stop work and follow a defined escalation route so that certified removal specialists can be instructed. We comply with relevant waste transfer documentation requirements and ensure that disposal is carried out by licensed waste carriers. Environmental protection measures include spill response kits, dust suppression techniques and minimising disturbance to surrounding areas during clearances.

Emergency preparedness is embedded in our operations. First aid kits are available in vehicles and at operational sites, and several members of staff are trained first-aiders. Evacuation routes and assembly points are identified for larger clearance projects and shared with occupants where appropriate. Incident investigation procedures are in place to learn from accidents and near misses; corrective actions are logged and reviewed as part of continuous improvement for our clearance and rubbish company activities.

Training, competence and documentation are the foundation of effective health and safety management. All operatives receive induction training, periodic refresher courses and site-specific briefings. Records of training, risk assessments, method statements and safety inspections are retained in line with statutory retention guidance. Supervisors will conduct toolbox talks and monitor performance to ensure adherence to safe work practices. The company also promotes a culture where staff are encouraged to raise safety concerns without fear of reprisal.

This policy is reviewed at regular intervals and updated following significant operational changes, incidents or legislative updates. It aims to provide practical protections for workers and members of the public while enabling efficient flat clearance, waste clearance and rubbish collection services. Compliance with the policy is mandatory for all personnel, and failure to follow its procedures may result in disciplinary action. The policy supports our mission to deliver safe, responsible clearance services across the service area while protecting people, property and the environment.