Storage Anerley Health and Safety Policy
Storage Anerley is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all employees, customers, contractors, visitors, and others who may be affected by our storage and removal activities. This policy sets out our approach to managing health and safety in relation to our facilities, vehicles, and day-to-day operations.
Our Commitment
We aim to prevent accidents, injuries, and work-related ill health by identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing effective controls. We will provide appropriate information, instruction, training, and supervision to ensure that health and safety responsibilities are understood and fulfilled at all levels of the business.
Health and safety is a core part of how we operate and is integrated into our planning, decision-making, and continuous improvement processes. Everyone working for or with Storage Anerley is expected to take reasonable care for their own safety and the safety of others.
Responsibilities
The overall responsibility for health and safety rests with the company management, who will ensure that adequate resources are made available to implement this policy. Managers and supervisors are responsible for the day-to-day application of health and safety arrangements within their areas, including storage units, loading bays, and vehicles used for removals and transport.
Employees are required to:
Follow all health and safety procedures and safe systems of work
Use equipment, vehicles, and personal protective equipment correctly
Report hazards, near-misses, accidents, and unsafe conditions immediately
Attend health and safety training as required
Not interfere with or misuse anything provided for health, safety, or welfare
Contractors and subcontractors working on our behalf must comply with this policy and any site-specific rules provided to them before work starts.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We will carry out risk assessments to identify significant hazards associated with our activities, including manual handling, storage of goods, vehicle movements, working at height, and the use of equipment. Control measures will be implemented to reduce risks to an acceptable level, and these assessments will be reviewed regularly or following any significant changes in operations.
Safe systems of work will be developed and communicated for key tasks such as loading and unloading vehicles, operating lifting equipment, navigating storage areas, and handling bulky or heavy items. Staff must follow these procedures at all times and seek guidance if they are unsure how to complete a task safely.
Manual Handling and Lifting Operations
Our storage and removal services involve frequent handling of boxes, furniture, and other items. To reduce the risk of injury, we will:
Provide training on correct lifting and carrying techniques
Use appropriate handling aids where practical, such as trolleys, dollies, and lifting straps
Plan handling tasks to avoid unnecessary carrying distances and awkward routes
Encourage team lifting for heavy or bulky loads
Employees must not attempt to lift or carry items that are beyond their capability and should always ask for assistance or request equipment when needed.
Vehicles, Driving, and Transport Safety
Many of our activities involve the use of vehicles for removals and transport. We will ensure that vehicles are maintained in a safe condition, inspected regularly, and suitable for their intended use. Drivers must hold the appropriate licence, follow road safety laws, and adhere to company driving procedures.
Loading and unloading areas will be managed to minimise reversing and congestion. Where reversing cannot be avoided, a banksman or guide will be used where possible. Loads must be secured properly to prevent movement or damage during transit, and vehicles must never be overloaded.
Storage Areas and Housekeeping
Good housekeeping is essential for safe and efficient operations. All storage and operational areas must be kept clean, tidy, and free from obstructions. Access routes, fire exits, and emergency equipment must remain clear at all times.
Items must be stored safely, with heavier goods placed on lower levels and lighter items above to reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Stacks must be stable and not exceed safe heights. Any damage to shelving, racking, doors, or floors must be reported promptly for inspection and repair.
Equipment and Personal Protective Equipment
All work equipment, including trolleys, lifting aids, and tools, must be inspected regularly and maintained in a safe condition. Defective or damaged equipment must be taken out of use immediately and reported to a manager.
Where risks cannot be fully eliminated, suitable personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety footwear, or high-visibility clothing, will be provided. Employees must use the equipment as instructed, look after it, and report any loss or damage.
Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures
We will implement and maintain fire safety measures appropriate to our premises and activities. This includes fire detection and alarm systems, firefighting equipment, clearly marked escape routes, and regular checks and maintenance.
Emergency procedures, including evacuation arrangements and assembly points, will be communicated to staff and displayed in relevant areas. Fire drills will be carried out periodically to ensure that employees and regular contractors understand what to do in the event of an emergency.
Incident Reporting and Investigation
All accidents, injuries, cases of ill health, near-misses, and dangerous occurrences must be reported as soon as possible. We will record and investigate incidents to identify root causes and take steps to prevent recurrence.
Information gained from investigations and reporting will be used to improve our procedures, training, and risk controls. Employees are encouraged to raise any health and safety concerns without fear of blame or reprisal.
Training, Consultation, and Continuous Improvement
Storage Anerley will provide appropriate health and safety induction and ongoing training for all employees, taking into account their role and responsibilities, including those involved in removals, packing, and handling operations.
We will consult with employees on matters that affect their health and safety and will consider their feedback when reviewing risk assessments, procedures, and workplace arrangements. This policy and our health and safety procedures will be monitored and reviewed periodically, and updated when necessary to reflect changes in legislation, guidance, or our operations.
By working together and maintaining a proactive approach, we aim to ensure that Storage Anerley remains a safe place to work, store goods, and access removal and transport services.
