Health and Safety Policy — Skip Hire Queens Park Rubbish and Waste Service

Purpose and scope: This Health and Safety Policy sets out the commitment of Skip Hire Queens Park and associated rubbish removal teams to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees, contractors, visitors and the public across our skip hire and waste collection service area. The policy covers all operations including skip delivery and collection, on-site loading, vehicle movements, transfer of general and bulky waste, and storage prior to disposal or recycling. It applies to permanent staff, temporary workers and subcontractors engaged on behalf of the company. The organisation recognises that safe operations and responsible waste handling are integral to delivering reliable skip hire, waste removal and site clearance services.

General responsibilities

The company director and management team are responsible for setting the standard and ensuring adequate resources are provided for implementation of this policy. Supervisors and team leaders must ensure daily safe systems of work, risk assessments and briefings are carried out. Every employee has a duty to work safely, follow instructions, use provided personal protective equipment and report hazards or incidents immediately. Employees must not undertake tasks for which they have not been trained or authorised.

Training and competence

All personnel receive induction training tailored to skip hire and rubbish collection operations, including safe lifting, manual handling, traffic management and vehicle loading procedures. Training is refreshed periodically and records retained. Specific training for hazardous materials identification, segregation and emergency response is mandatory where relevant. The company uses competency checks and toolbox talks to ensure ongoing capability and to promote a culture of continuous safety improvement.

Operational controls and vehicle safety: Vehicles and plant used for skip delivery, collection and waste transport are maintained to manufacturer standards and inspected before each shift. Drivers and operators follow defined safe systems of work covering site access, reversing procedures, use of banksmen and securing of loads. Loads are covered or restrained where required to prevent spillage during transit. Work areas are kept clear of unnecessary personnel when lifting equipment operates.

Hazardous and controlled waste handling

The organisation recognises the additional risks from hazardous wastes and controlled materials. Such items are not accepted without prior notification and appropriate documentation. Procedures include: identification on receipt, segregation, use of appropriate containers, labelling, safe handling and transfer to authorised disposal routes. Employees are trained in the safe handling of potentially hazardous items and in the use of spill kits and containment measures to prevent environmental contamination.

Safe loading and unloading practices are emphasised to prevent overloading, unbalanced or unstable skips. Manual handling risks are mitigated by mechanical aids and team lifts where necessary. Where mechanical handling such as telehandlers or cranes is used, operations comply with accredited lifting plans and operators hold valid credentials. Safe distances and exclusion zones are maintained while plant is in operation.

Incident reporting, monitoring and records — All incidents, near misses and breaches of safety procedures are reported, investigated and recorded. Investigations identify root causes and corrective actions which are monitored to completion. Regular audits, site inspections and performance reviews measure compliance and inform continuous improvement. The company maintains up-to-date records of training, risk assessments, vehicle inspections and waste transfer documentation.

Contractors and third-party management — Subcontractors engaged for ancillary services such as skip collection, heavy lifting or specialist disposal must demonstrate competency, insurance and safety systems aligned with this policy. Pre-qualification, site induction and supervision are used to ensure third parties meet required standards. Work by third parties is coordinated to avoid conflicting operations and to protect public safety.

Environmental controls and emergency response: Measures to prevent pollution and nuisance include secure loading, spill kits on-site, controls to prevent dust and runoff, and procedures for containment and recovery of spills. Emergency arrangements include first aid provision, clear emergency assembly points, trained first aiders and liaison with emergency services if required. Fire prevention measures are implemented for stored waste and fuel handling.

Health and welfare provisions

The company provides necessary PPE including high-visibility clothing, gloves, safety boots and eye protection. Welfare facilities, rest breaks and access to medical support are provided in line with relevant guidance. Occupational health surveillance is available where work activities present specific health risks.

Communication and consultation

Employees are consulted on health and safety matters and encouraged to contribute to risk assessments and safety improvements. Safety briefings and toolbox talks are held regularly to maintain awareness of operational risks associated with skip hire and rubbish removal services. Workers are empowered to stop unsafe work without repercussion.

Policy review and continual improvement: This Health and Safety Policy is reviewed annually or whenever significant changes to operations, legislation or incidents occur. The objective is to continually reduce risk and to maintain safe, compliant waste and skip hire operations across the service area. By adhering to these principles, the organisation commits to delivering safe, reliable and responsible rubbish collection and skip hire services.