Health and Safety Policy for Flat Clearance Crystal Palace

Policy statement: This Health and Safety Policy sets out the commitment of our flat clearance and rubbish removal service to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees, contractors, clients and the public. Our objective is to deliver professional flat clearance, apartment clearance and waste clearance services in a way that minimises risk and complies with applicable safety standards. We adopt a proactive approach to hazard identification, safe systems of work and continual improvement so that every flat clearance operation is carried out with care and competence.

Scope and application: This policy applies to all activities undertaken by the company including flat clearance, rubbish disposal, furniture removal and hazardous material handling during clearances. It covers work performed at residential properties, communal access areas and in transit. The policy is relevant to full-time and part-time staff, contractors and any individuals who may be affected by our operations. All personnel must understand their role and responsibilities in implementing safe working practices during every stage of a clearance project.

Responsibilities

Management has the overall responsibility to ensure that appropriate resources are provided to implement this policy. Supervisors and team leaders must carry out risk assessments specific to each flat removal or rubbish collection task and make sure employees follow the control measures identified. Employees are required to work safely, report defects, near misses and incidents promptly, and use issued personal protective equipment. Visitors and clients should observe site instructions and cooperate with crews to maintain a safe environment during apartment clearance work.

Risk assessment and safe systems

Before every clearance job we conduct a documented risk assessment to identify hazards such as manual handling risks, sharps and broken glass, asbestos suspicion, waste segregation issues and traffic or access hazards. Control measures include task-specific method statements, team briefings, appropriate lifting aids, and secure containment for hazardous items. For complex or high-risk removals, a supervisor will prepare a written safe system of work and communicate it to the crew.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) and training: All operatives must wear appropriate PPE during removal and rubbish clearing tasks, including high-visibility clothing, gloves, steel-toe footwear, eye protection and respiratory protection when required. Training is provided for manual handling techniques, safe use of tools, correct segregation of recyclable and non-recyclable waste and awareness of potential biohazards. Competence checks and refresher training are scheduled regularly to ensure ongoing compliance.

Manual handling and ergonomics: Manual handling is a key hazard in clearance services. We promote mechanical aids and team lifts for heavy or awkward items, pre-planning of lifting routes and clear communication during lifts. Employees are trained to assess loads and to refuse unsafe lifts. Ergonomic considerations include rotation of tasks and adequate rest breaks to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury during extended clearance operations.

Waste classification and hazardous materials Waste removed during flat clearances may include general household rubbish, bulky items, electronics, and potentially hazardous materials such as batteries, solvents, paint and unidentified powders. A clear segregation system is used to separate recyclables, hazardous items and general waste for proper disposal. Suspected asbestos-containing materials are not disturbed; the area is secured and specialist contractors are engaged where necessary.

Vehicle and transport safety: Vehicles used in rubbish removal and flat clearance are maintained to a strict schedule to ensure roadworthiness and safe operation. Loads are secured to prevent shifting during transit and drivers follow safe loading and unloading procedures. Crews receive guidance on safe driving, route planning to avoid congestion and appropriate securing of bulky items to protect both the public and the team.

Emergency procedures and incident reporting: Clear instructions are in place for emergencies including personal injury, fire, spillage of hazardous substances and engagement with potentially aggressive situations. First aid equipment is available on site and designated first-aiders are trained and identified. All incidents, near misses and property damage must be recorded and reported so that corrective actions can be implemented to prevent recurrence.

Public safety and site management

When operating in communal or public areas, teams take steps to protect passersby by cordoning work zones, using warning signage and ensuring materials do not obstruct access. Stairwells, lifts and corridors are protected during apartment clearance to prevent damage and to maintain safe egress routes. Team members are briefed about respectful conduct in occupied buildings and the need to maintain a tidy work area at all times.

Monitoring, audit and continual improvement

We maintain records of training, risk assessments, vehicle checks and incident reports. Regular safety audits are carried out and results are reviewed by management to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. Feedback from crew observations and operational reviews is used to update procedures, enhance training and improve the safety performance of our rubbish removal and clearance services.

Policy review This policy is reviewed at least annually or sooner following significant change, serious incident or legislative update. The review process ensures that the approach to flat clearance safety remains effective and aligned with good practice. All employees will be informed of any amendments and provided with the necessary training to implement revised procedures.

Commitment Our company is committed to achieving high standards of health and safety across all aspects of flat and apartment clearance work. By promoting a safety-first culture, ensuring adequate training and resources, and engaging with safe operational practices, we aim to protect people and property while delivering efficient rubbish removal and waste clearance services.

Signatures and acceptance Senior management endorse this policy and require all teams to accept and follow its provisions. Managers will ensure that resources are available to meet policy requirements and that responsibilities are clearly communicated and understood throughout the organisation.

Implementation The success of this policy depends on the cooperation of every individual involved in clearance operations. Continuous vigilance, adherence to safe systems of work and open communication will ensure that our flat clearance and rubbish removal services are delivered responsibly and safely.