Health and Safety Policy for Storage Parsons Green
Storage Parsons Green is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for employees, customers, contractors, and visitors. This Health and Safety Policy explains how we manage risks associated with storage, removals, and related services, and how we aim to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to property.
Our Health and Safety Commitments
We recognise our responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of everyone affected by our operations. Senior management is responsible for implementing and maintaining this policy, including providing adequate resources, training, and supervision to ensure safe working practices.
All employees are required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Everyone working for or with Storage Parsons Green must cooperate fully with this policy and the procedures that support it.
Planning and Risk Assessment
We identify and manage risks across our storage and removal activities through structured risk assessments. These assessments cover, but are not limited to, manual handling, vehicle and driving activities, loading and unloading, use of lifting equipment, storage of goods, working at height, slips, trips and falls, fire safety, and hazardous substances.
Risk assessments are reviewed periodically and following any incident, significant change in operations, or introduction of new equipment, vehicles, or processes. Control measures are put in place to reduce risks to the lowest reasonably practicable level.
Safe Working Practices in Storage Facilities
Our storage facilities are managed to maintain safe access, clear escape routes, and orderly storage areas. Goods must be stacked securely and within specified height limits to prevent collapse. Heavier items are stored at lower levels, and fragile or awkward items are handled with particular care.
Walkways, staircases, and loading bays must be kept free from obstructions and spillages. Where mechanical handling equipment or trolleys are used, operators are trained and authorised, and equipment is inspected regularly.
Lighting and ventilation in storage areas are maintained to provide a safe and comfortable working environment, and maintenance issues are reported promptly to management.
Safe Removals, Handling and Transport
Our removals and transport operations are planned with safety as a priority. Routes, parking, and access points are assessed to identify any specific hazards before work begins. Where necessary, additional control measures are put in place, such as the use of extra staff, protective equipment, or alternative access methods.
All loading and unloading activities must be carried out in a controlled manner. Loads are evenly distributed, securely fastened, and checked before vehicles move. Only trained and competent staff are permitted to drive company vehicles or operate lifting or handling equipment.
Drivers must carry out basic checks on vehicles and report defects immediately. Journey times are planned to reduce fatigue, and all traffic and parking regulations must be followed.
Manual Handling and Use of Equipment
Manual handling is a key part of storage and removals work, and we place great emphasis on correct technique and equipment use. Staff receive training in safe lifting, team handling, and the use of mechanical aids such as sack trucks, dollies, and lifting straps.
No one is required to lift or carry loads that are beyond their individual capability. Employees are encouraged to request assistance or use appropriate equipment when loads are heavy, bulky, or difficult to handle. Management will provide handling aids wherever reasonably practicable to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
Personal Protective Equipment
Where risks cannot be fully controlled by other means, suitable personal protective equipment is provided. This may include gloves, safety footwear, high-visibility clothing, and other items relevant to specific tasks. Staff are expected to use the equipment provided, to look after it properly, and to report losses or defects immediately so that items can be repaired or replaced.
Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures
Fire safety is an essential part of our health and safety arrangements. Fire detection and alarm systems are installed and tested at appropriate intervals. Escape routes and exits are kept clear and are clearly signed.
All employees must familiarise themselves with emergency procedures, including the location of exits, assembly points, and fire-fighting equipment. In the event of a fire or other emergency, everyone must follow the instructions of the designated fire warden or the most senior member of staff present.
Training, Supervision and Communication
We provide health and safety training to all employees appropriate to their role, including induction training for new starters and additional task-specific training as required. Training covers manual handling, safe vehicle use, site rules, emergency procedures, and the correct use of personal protective equipment.
Supervisors and managers monitor working practices to ensure that safety procedures are followed consistently. Health and safety expectations are communicated clearly, and updates are provided when policies or procedures change.
Incident Reporting and Investigation
All accidents, injuries, near misses, and dangerous occurrences must be reported without delay. We record and investigate each incident to identify root causes and to implement corrective actions that help prevent recurrence.
Open reporting is encouraged, and no one will be penalised for raising genuine health and safety concerns. Lessons learned from incidents are shared internally and, where relevant, result in revised procedures, updated training, or changes to equipment or layout.
Responsibilities and Continuous Improvement
Overall responsibility for health and safety rests with senior management. Day-to-day responsibilities are delegated to managers and supervisors, who must ensure that this policy is implemented in their areas. Every employee has a duty to work safely, follow instructions, and report hazards.
This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains suitable and effective for our storage, removals, and related services. Through ongoing assessment, training, and communication, Storage Parsons Green aims to continually improve its health and safety performance and maintain a safe environment for everyone who engages with our business.
