Flat Clearance Millbank - Health and Safety Policy

This Health and Safety Policy sets out the commitment of Flat Clearance Millbank to protect the welfare of staff, contractors and the public during all flat clearance and rubbish removal operations. Our aim is to deliver a safe, compliant and efficient flat clearance service while minimising risk to people and property. This policy applies across our rubbish company service area and covers waste clearance, bulky item removal, hazardous item handling and site safety during clearance work in residential and communal settings.

All employees and subcontractors are required to understand and follow the responsibilities below. The company will ensure that relevant personnel receive adequate training, are provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and are competent in safe manual handling and waste segregation. Risk assessments will be completed before every job and documented controls will be implemented to reduce exposure to hazards such as manual handling injuries, slips, trips and falls, sharp objects, dust and biological contamination.

The hierarchy of control is fundamental to our approach. Where possible we will eliminate hazards, substitute risky tasks with safer alternatives, use engineering controls such as barriers and mechanical aids, apply administrative controls including safe systems of work and training, and ensure adequate PPE is worn. The policy emphasises a practical, proportionate approach for rubbish clearance and waste removal operations that respects occupants and communal areas while maintaining safety standards.

Responsibilities and Safe Working Practices

Managers must ensure that job planning, permit-to-work procedures and client communications consider safety and environmental compliance. Employees must report hazards, follow risk assessments and use equipment correctly. Our rubbish collection and flat clearance teams are trained to assess flat layouts, access constraints and target items for removal, ensuring secure handling and safe transport of waste to prevent injury and property damage.

To support safe operations we maintain clear procedures, including a checklist for on-site appraisal, segregation of recyclable and non-recyclable waste, and protocols for managing unknown or hazardous materials. This includes controlled handling of electrical appliances, batteries, gas cylinders and items that may contain asbestos or sharps. In such cases, work will be paused and specialist removal engaged where required.

The company maintains an inventory of mechanical aids and lifting equipment and ensures all devices are inspected and maintained. We require the use of trolleys, sack trucks and lifting belts where necessary and prohibit solo lifting of heavy items above defined weight limits. Staff are encouraged to use team lifting and request assistance for awkward loads, ensuring manual handling techniques align with best practice.

Emergency Procedures, Incident Reporting and Monitoring

Emergency arrangements include clear procedures for first aid, fire response and evacuation where applicable. Employees must report incidents and near misses immediately using our internal reporting process so lessons can be learned and controls strengthened. A documented investigation will follow significant events to identify root causes and remedial actions.

Regular monitoring and audits will be undertaken to check compliance with this policy. Safety performance is reviewed at scheduled management meetings and through periodic site inspections. Key performance indicators include incident rates, training completion, equipment inspections and client-reported safety concerns. Continuous improvement is central to our operation; corrective actions are tracked and implemented promptly.

Environmental responsibilities are integrated into the safety framework. We promote recycling and reuse where possible during flat clearances and require correct classification and disposal of hazardous wastes. Waste carriers and transfer routes will be chosen to reduce site congestion and minimise risk to the public. The policy also covers secure storage in vehicles to prevent spillage and ensure safe transit across the rubbish company service area.

Training and competence form the foundation of our safety culture. All new staff receive induction training that includes manual handling, PPE use, vehicle safety and awareness of hazardous materials. Refresher training and toolbox talks are scheduled regularly to maintain high standards. Supervisors are assessed on their ability to plan safe tasks and mentor teams on safe rubbish removal practices.

Contractors working with Flat Clearance Millbank are required to demonstrate equivalent safety standards and provide relevant documentation, insurance and risk assessments. Subcontractors must adhere to our procedures for confined access, safe loading and segregation of waste streams. The company reserves the right to suspend work if unsafe practices are observed.

In summary, this policy commits the organisation to provide a safe working environment for flat clearance and rubbish removal services. It sets expectations for leadership, staff and partners, and outlines practical controls to manage hazards. The policy will be reviewed annually or after significant incidents, changes in legislation or operational changes to ensure ongoing relevance and effectiveness.

• Key elements: risk assessment, training, PPE, emergency procedures
• Operational controls: safe handling, waste segregation, equipment maintenance
• Review: annual policy review and post-incident updates