Health & Safety Policy for Flat Clearance Services

This policy sets out the commitment of our flat clearance operation to provide a safe and healthy working environment for staff, contractors and the public. It applies to all aspects of flat clearance and rubbish removal work we undertake, covering site access, manual handling, segregation of waste and transportation. The purpose is to minimise risk, ensure legal compliance and describe practical steps taken to deliver a safe flat clearance service while protecting the environment.

The policy is supported by senior management and is the responsibility of everyone involved. Management will allocate appropriate resources and ensure clear lines of responsibility. All operatives must follow safe systems of work and report hazards immediately. Employees must read and understand this policy and related procedures before starting any clearance task. Key responsibilities include risk assessment, supervision and maintaining records of training and incidents.

Risk assessment is central to safe waste removal and flat clearances. Each job requires a pre-start assessment to identify hazards such as sharps, hazardous liquids, bulky items and potential asbestos. Control measures will be documented and implemented. Typical controls include:

• Use of suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection and hi-vis clothing.
• Safe manual handling techniques, mechanical aids and team lifts for heavy items.
• Segregation of recyclable materials, hazardous waste and general rubbish to prevent contamination.

Work methods for flat clearance and rubbish collection must be planned and communicated to the crew. This includes route planning through properties, use of lift or stair precautions, and protecting floors and fixtures. Permit-to-work or specific client requirements will be recorded where necessary. All team members will be briefed on the plan and their personal duties.

Handling hazardous substances requires extra caution. If suspected asbestos, chemical containers or medical waste are found, work will stop and a specialist will be consulted. The policy emphasises safe identification, containment and lawful disposal of hazardous materials. Staff are trained to recognise warning signs and to avoid disturbing suspect items until specialist advice is obtained.

Vehicle safety and transportation form a core part of the operational process. Vehicles used for rubbish removal will be roadworthy, correctly loaded and secured. Drivers will comply with road safety regulations and company procedures for pooling, loading and unloading. Daily vehicle checks and documented maintenance help reduce the risk of incidents during transit.

Training, competence and supervision are essential. All operatives will receive induction training that covers manual handling, PPE use, incident reporting and job-specific risks for the flat clearance sector. Refresher training will be provided regularly and after any changes to procedures or equipment. Supervisors will monitor performance to ensure compliance with safe systems of work.

Incident management and first aid arrangements are in place to respond to accidents, near misses and emergencies. All incidents must be reported, recorded and investigated to identify root causes and preventive measures. First aid kits and trained first aiders will be available on site where reasonably practicable, and emergency contact protocols will be established for rapid response without disclosing personal contact details.

Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement

Audit and review

Regular inspections, audits and performance reviews will assess compliance with this health and safety policy. Findings will be used to update risk assessments, improve training and refine operational practices. Records of inspections, training and incidents will be maintained and available for review by competent authorities if required.

Implementation of the policy is mandatory for all personnel engaged in flat clearance and rubbish removal activities. Continuous improvement is achieved by learning from incidents, adopting safer equipment and updating procedures. The company will ensure this policy is communicated to employees, contractors and relevant third parties and will be reviewed at least annually or whenever significant changes to services occur.

By following the measures described here—risk assessment, safe work planning, appropriate PPE, training, vehicle safety and robust incident procedures—we aim to deliver a secure, reliable and compliant flat clearance service that protects people and the environment. This policy is part of our management system and will be maintained as a live document to ensure ongoing legal compliance and operational excellence.