Storage Marylebone Health and Safety Policy
Storage Marylebone is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for employees, customers, contractors, and visitors. This Health and Safety Policy sets out our approach to managing risks associated with storage, handling, and removal services, and to ensuring compliance with relevant health and safety legislation and industry best practice.
Policy Statement and Objectives
The primary objective of this policy is to prevent injury, ill health, and damage to property. We will identify, assess, and control risks arising from our activities, including storage operations, handling of client goods, and removal and transport services.
We aim to continuously improve our health and safety performance by reviewing procedures, monitoring working practices, and encouraging feedback from staff and customers. Health and safety considerations are integrated into our business planning, operational decisions, and daily working practices.
Management Responsibilities
Senior management is responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring that adequate resources are provided for health and safety. This includes providing appropriate equipment, training, supervision, and maintenance of our premises and vehicles used in removal and storage operations.
Management will regularly review risk assessments, safe systems of work, and emergency procedures. They will ensure that incidents, near misses, and customer feedback are investigated and that any necessary corrective actions are implemented promptly.
Employee Responsibilities
All employees have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions. Employees must follow all safety instructions, use equipment correctly, and adhere to training and procedures relevant to storage, lifting, loading, unloading, and driving tasks.
Employees are expected to report hazards, defects, near misses, and incidents without delay to their line manager. They must never misuse or interfere with any safety equipment or systems, and must co operate fully with any investigation or review of health and safety matters.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
We carry out regular and systematic risk assessments covering our storage facilities, handling equipment, vehicles, and removal activities at customer sites. Risks identified are recorded, evaluated, and controlled through appropriate measures, including safe systems of work and staff training.
Particular attention is given to manual handling tasks, working in confined or restricted spaces, vehicle movements, use of trolleys and lifting aids, stacking and racking of goods, and interaction with customers and third party contractors. Where necessary, work methods are adapted or equipment is introduced to minimise the likelihood of injury or damage.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Manual handling is central to storage and removal work and is managed carefully to reduce risk of musculoskeletal injury. Staff receive guidance on safe lifting techniques, correct posture, use of team lifts, and appropriate use of handling aids such as sack trucks, dollies, and lifting straps.
Heavy or awkward items are moved using mechanical aids where possible, and lifting limits are observed in line with training and guidance. Staff are encouraged to assess each lift before beginning work and to stop and seek assistance if they believe a task cannot be carried out safely.
Vehicles, Driving and On Site Work
Vehicles used for removals and transport are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition, with regular checks and servicing. Drivers are responsible for conducting daily vehicle checks and reporting defects immediately.
When working at customer premises or other locations, our teams take care to protect both people and property. This includes safe parking and unloading, appropriate use of ramps and access equipment, and taking reasonable steps to prevent slips, trips, and falls for staff, customers, and members of the public.
Storage Facilities and Equipment Safety
Our storage facilities are managed to ensure safe access, clear walkways, and secure stacking of goods. Racking, shelving, and storage systems are inspected periodically and maintained in good condition.
Any equipment used in handling and storing customer property, including trolleys and lifting devices, is inspected and maintained according to a planned schedule. Defective equipment is removed from use until it can be repaired or replaced.
Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures
We maintain fire safety measures appropriate to our premises, including alarm systems, fire extinguishers, clear escape routes, and signage. Fire risk assessments are reviewed regularly and whenever significant changes occur in the layout or use of the premises.
All staff are instructed in emergency procedures, including evacuation routes, assembly points, and the reporting of fire hazards. Periodic drills are conducted to ensure that employees are familiar with the procedures and can respond effectively in an emergency.
Health, Welfare and First Aid
We provide suitable welfare facilities, including access to rest areas, drinking water, and sanitary facilities. Reasonable steps are taken to ensure a comfortable working environment, taking into account ventilation, temperature, lighting, and housekeeping standards.
First aid equipment is provided and maintained, and trained personnel are available to administer first aid during working hours. All accidents and injuries, however minor, must be reported and recorded so that patterns can be identified and preventive measures taken.
Training, Information and Supervision
Training is provided to all employees appropriate to their role and responsibilities, with particular emphasis on manual handling, vehicle safety, use of equipment, and emergency procedures. Training is refreshed periodically and whenever work practices or equipment change.
Employees receive clear information about the hazards associated with their work and the control measures in place. Supervisors monitor working practices and provide guidance and support to ensure procedures are followed consistently and safely.
Contractors, Visitors and Customers
Contractors working on our behalf are expected to meet equivalent health and safety standards and to co operate with our site rules and procedures. Relevant information is provided to contractors before work starts, and their activities may be monitored to ensure compliance.
Visitors and customers entering operational areas are supervised where necessary to reduce risks. They may be given safety instructions relevant to the areas they access, and must comply with any reasonable request made by staff in the interests of safety.
Consultation, Monitoring and Policy Review
We recognise the value of consultation with employees on health and safety matters. Staff are encouraged to raise concerns, suggest improvements, and participate in discussions about safe working practices and equipment.
Health and safety performance is monitored through inspections, incident reports, and feedback. This policy and the supporting procedures are reviewed at least annually, and sooner if there are significant changes to our operations, regulations, or industry guidance. Any updates will be communicated to all employees and, where relevant, to contractors and customers.
