Health & Safety Policy — Flat Clearance Sudbury

This policy sets out the commitment of Flat Clearance Sudbury to maintaining a safe working environment for staff, contractors and the public when providing flat clearance and rubbish collection services. The purpose of this document is to define responsibilities, outline safe systems of work and communicate practical controls for operations within our rubbish company service area and adjacent properties. It is essential that all employees understand and follow this policy, and that management provide the resources and leadership required to keep everyone safe.

The scope of the policy covers all activities associated with flat clearance, removal of household items, furniture, and general waste in our rubbish removal service area. Management retains overall responsibility for health and safety, supported by appointed supervisors who ensure that risk assessments, permits and safe working procedures are in place. Employees are required to cooperate, report hazards and participate in safety training. Health and safety is a shared duty and non-compliance may result in disciplinary action to protect individuals and the wider community.

Risk assessment and control measures

Flat Clearance Sudbury conducts systematic risk assessments for all tasks in the rubbish collection service area. Identified hazards are recorded, and proportionate control measures are implemented using the hierarchy of controls. Typical control measures include:

• Use of manual handling aids and safe lifting techniques to reduce musculoskeletal injury.
• Provision of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, hi-vis clothing and protective footwear.
• Segregation and labelling of hazardous items to prevent contamination and injury.

Controls are regularly reviewed and adapted to site conditions and the nature of waste involved.

Training, competence and supervision

All staff working in the waste clearance area must receive induction training and task-specific instruction. Training includes correct waste handling, vehicle loading, traffic awareness and chemical handling where applicable. Supervisors provide ongoing on-the-job coaching and competency checks. Records of training and certifications are maintained and reviewed as part of the company’s audit cycle to ensure continuous improvement across the rubbish clearance region.

Safe work practices and equipment

Equipment used by the team is maintained to a safe standard. Pre-use checks are mandatory for vehicles, trolleys and lifting equipment. Safe work practices include:

• Avoiding lone working when handling bulky or hazardous waste in the removal service area.
• Using mechanical aids for heavy lifts and ensuring clear communication between team members.
• Ensuring walkways are kept clear and that waste is stacked and secured to prevent falls and slips.

Personal protective equipment must be worn as specified, and any defects reported immediately. The company uses a planned maintenance regime to ensure tools and transport remain fit for purpose.

Supervisory checks, toolbox talks and regular safety briefings are used to reinforce safe methods. Behavioural safety is promoted to encourage staff to observe one another and intervene where unsafe acts are identified. The organisation commits to investing in training and safer equipment to reduce incidents and improve outcomes across the waste management service area.

Waste handling, segregation and disposal

All waste types encountered during flat clearances are classified and handled according to the nature of the material. Recyclables are separated from general rubbish and hazardous items are segregated, labelled and stored securely pending authorised disposal. The policy requires that staff follow written removal procedures and confirm that loads are safe and compliant before dispatch. Proper segregation reduces contamination risk and supports responsible waste management in the rubbish clearing area.

Emergency procedures and incident reporting

In the event of incidents such as spills, injuries or fires, employees must follow emergency procedures: raise the alarm, administer first aid within competence, and contact appointed emergency personnel. All incidents, near misses and uncontrolled releases of waste must be reported promptly and investigated to identify root causes. Lessons learned will be used to update controls and prevent recurrence. The company maintains first aid kits, spill response materials and clear signage to support rapid, effective response.

Review, audit and continual improvement: this policy is reviewed annually or after significant incidents, changes to operations or equipment. Audits and inspections are conducted to verify compliance within the rubbish company service region and to identify opportunities for improvement. Employees are encouraged to contribute to risk reduction through reporting and participation in safety meetings. The organisation is committed to maintaining a positive safety culture where everyone is empowered to work safely and to support the wellbeing of colleagues and the public.