Health and Safety Policy for Commercial Waste Morden Operations

This Health and Safety policy sets out the commitment and procedures for safe delivery of commercial waste and rubbish collection services in the service area. It applies to all employees, subcontractors and visitors engaged in commercial waste removal, transfer, and recycling activities. The organisation recognises that a proactive safety culture reduces injuries, prevents pollution and protects property. Our aim is to manage waste services in a way that safeguards people and the environment while maintaining reliable rubbish collection and commercial waste solutions.

All staff are required to follow the policy statements below and take responsibility for day-to-day safety. Senior management will provide leadership, resources and oversight required to meet the policy goals. This document outlines roles, risk control measures, training and monitoring arrangements to support safe operation of Morden commercial waste collection and associated services, without unnecessary local legal detail, focusing on practical safety controls.

The policy covers routine refuse collection, commercial skip handling, bulky waste removal and transfer station activities. Key responsibilities include hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementation of control measures for manual handling, vehicle operations and hazardous materials. Regular site inspections, safe working procedures and an open reporting culture are central. We emphasise continuous improvement and compliance with recognised industry best practice.

Responsibilities and Duties

Management must ensure safe systems of work, provision of suitable equipment and adequate training. Supervisors and team leaders will: plan tasks, assess risks, confirm permits where applicable and supervise unloading/transfer operations. Employees are expected to follow instructions, use personal protective equipment (PPE) and report hazards. Contractors must demonstrate competency and adhere to the same standards for commercial rubbish services.

Risk assessments will address manual handling, slips/trips, exposure to sharps, asbestos risk indicators, vehicle movement and traffic management, and hazardous wastes such as solvents and chemicals. Controls will include: segregated loading areas, mechanical handling aids, safe access routes, clear signage and use of sealed containers for liquid or hazardous waste. A safe segregation policy helps reduce contamination and improves recycling outcomes for commercial waste clients.

Training and competency are essential. Induction training covers site rules, emergency procedures and the correct use of lifting equipment. Ongoing training includes defensive driving, safe use of tail-lifts and bodywork securement for heavy items. Refresher sessions and toolbox talks will be held regularly. Records of training, licenses and medical fitness assessments will be maintained to ensure personnel are fit for duties in the rubbish collection and waste transfer roles.

Operational Controls and Safe Working Practices

Safe operation of collection vehicles and plant is critical. Vehicle checks must be performed at the start and end of each shift, with defects reported immediately. Site-specific controls include reversing risk reduction (banksman or reversing cameras), segregated pedestrian zones, and traffic management plans for busy collection points. Loading guidance requires correct stacking, weight distribution and secure fastening of loads for transport.

Handling potentially hazardous or unknown waste requires a conservative approach: isolate, identify, and if necessary, call specialist removal services. Spill kits and absorbents must be available on vehicles and at transfer stations. Waste containers should be clearly labelled and compatible with the contents. Use of chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection and masks is mandated when dealing with dusts, fumes or liquids. Incident containment procedures are in place to reduce environmental impacts and health risks.

Monitoring, incident reporting and review are key to continuous improvement. All incidents, near misses and unsafe conditions must be recorded and investigated to identify root causes and preventive actions. Regular audits, performance reviews and benchmarking against industry standards will ensure the policy remains effective. Performance indicators include accident rates, lost time incidents, and completion of scheduled inspections and training.

Emergency preparedness includes clearly documented evacuation plans for depots and transfer stations, access to first aid and arrangements for contacting emergency services. Fire risk assessments, provision of extinguishers, and regular emergency drills will be implemented. Communication plans ensure that on-site staff and visiting contractors understand their roles in an emergency.

Health surveillance and wellbeing programmes support employees exposed to dust, noise, or repetitive manual handling. Ergonomic controls, job rotation and mechanical aids reduce musculoskeletal risks. Employees are encouraged to report symptoms early and seek occupational health support. The policy also stresses mental health awareness and access to support where appropriate.

Management will review this policy annually and after significant incidents or operational changes. The review process includes consultation with staff and contractors to ensure the policy remains relevant and practical. By embedding these principles into everyday work, the organisation will deliver safe, efficient and responsible commercial waste and rubbish collection services across its service area.