Woolwich House Clearance Health & Safety Policy

This policy sets out the commitment of our Woolwich house clearance and rubbish removal teams to maintain safe working environments for staff, clients and the public. It applies to all activities carried out by the clearance company including domestic house clearance in Woolwich, rubbish collection, bulky waste removal and associated transport. The goal is to prevent incidents, reduce environmental impact and ensure duties are fulfilled in line with accepted industry practice.

The following policy provides a clear framework of responsibilities and operational controls. It emphasises training, risk assessment and continuous improvement. Managers will ensure that staff understand safe systems of work, that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and used, and that routes for escalation of concerns are available to everyone. This document is intended as a practical, action-focused statement for all Woolwich clearance operatives and subcontractors.

Scope and Objectives

The policy covers site clearance operations, rubbish clearance and disposal, customer premises work, vehicle loading/unloading and temporary storage of materials. Objectives include preventing injury, minimising manual handling risks, controlling hazardous waste, and promoting reuse and recycling over landfill wherever feasible. The company recognises its duties to provide safe plant, safe systems and competent people for every clearance job undertaken.

All staff involved in house clearances and rubbish removal services are required to follow defined procedures. Responsibilities are assigned as follows: senior managers maintain policy oversight and resource allocation; supervisors implement site-based controls; and operatives follow safe work instructions. Contractors must also comply with this policy before commencing work on any clearance project to protect both workforce and customers.

Risk Assessment and Control Measures

Every clearance assignment must begin with a documented risk assessment considering manual handling, sharp objects, asbestos suspicion, unstable structures, vermin, and vehicle movement. Controls include use of mechanical aids, two-person lifts for heavy items, clear segregation of hazardous materials, and appropriate waste containment. PPE such as gloves, safety boots, eye protection and hi-vis clothing is mandatory during rubbish clearance activities.

Training and competence are central to successful execution. Staff will receive induction training, regular toolbox talks and task-specific instruction. Competence checks and refresher courses ensure that operatives understand safe lifting techniques, site hygiene, infection control when dealing with contaminated waste, and correct use of disposal routes. The company promotes reporting of near-misses to learn and improve procedures.

Handling and disposal procedures for household waste, bulky items and mixed rubbish are described in operational documentation. A hierarchy of options — reuse, donation, recycling, safe disposal — is promoted to reduce environmental impact. Where hazardous materials are encountered, work will stop and specialist removal will be arranged. Vehicle safety is addressed through secure load practices, routine inspections and safe driving standards for rubbish contractors and clearance crews.

Emergency response and first aid arrangements are maintained across all sites. First aid kits are available, and designated personnel have appropriate first aid training. Fire safety, spill control and procedures for dealing with medical emergencies are included in on-site briefings. Incidents are recorded, investigated and used to update risk assessments and SAFE work procedures to prevent recurrence within the clearance and rubbish collection service area.

Monitoring, review and continual improvement are integral to this policy. Regular site audits, vehicle checks, and health and safety inspections will be performed. Key performance indicators include incident rates, completion of training, and compliance with waste segregation requirements. Management will review the policy at least annually or when operational changes occur, ensuring the policy remains effective for house clearance and rubbish clearance operations.