Health & Safety Policy

Abseiling Services Ltd

Last Updated: 30/01/2025

Policy Statement

Abseiling Services Ltd is fully committed to providing and maintaining a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone affected by our activities. We aim to comply with and exceed the requirements of relevant health and safety legislation, including but not limited to:

• Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
• Work at Height Regulations 2005
• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998
• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 2003

Our approach is built on the following principles:

1. Proactive Risk Management: Anticipating and mitigating risks before incidents occur.
2. Continuous Improvement: Regularly reviewing and updating policies, procedures, and practices to reflect advancements in health and safety.
3. Training and Competence: Ensuring all employees and contractors are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their duties safely.
4. Engagement and Consultation: Actively involving employees in shaping health and safety practices to foster a strong culture of safety.

1. Leadership and Commitment

The Directors of Abseiling Services Ltd bear ultimate responsibility for health and safety within the organisation. They are committed to:

• Setting a strong example of health and safety leadership at all levels.
• Allocating sufficient resources (financial, technical, and human) to maintain a safe working environment.
• Actively promoting a positive health and safety culture.
• Reviewing and approving this policy annually or whenever legislative or operational changes require it.

Senior Managers are tasked with ensuring compliance with the policy by overseeing its implementation and enforcing its provisions. This includes conducting regular inspections, monitoring performance, and ensuring all employees adhere to safety standards.

2. Responsibilities of Employees

All employees have a legal and moral duty to:

• Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions.
• Report any hazards, unsafe conditions, or equipment malfunctions to their supervisor without delay.
• Use all equipment, tools, and PPE in accordance with training and instructions provided.
• Follow all health and safety procedures, policies, and guidelines.
• Cooperate fully with managers and supervisors in meeting health and safety objectives.

3. Risk Assessment and Hazard Management

Abseiling Services Ltd adopts a systematic and proactive approach to managing workplace hazards and risks.

Steps in Risk Management:

1. Hazard Identification: Identifying potential risks arising from our operations, equipment, and environment.
2. Risk Assessment: Evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm.
3. Control Measures: Implementing the hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
4. Monitoring and Review: Continuously monitoring risks and updating assessments as required.

Examples of Specific Risk Areas:

• Work at Height: Ensuring compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, by using appropriate fall protection systems, edge protection, and safe access methods.
• Lifting Equipment: Ensuring lifting equipment is certified, inspected, and operated safely under the LOLER 1998.
• Workplace Ergonomics: Identifying manual handling risks and implementing ergonomic solutions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

4. Work at Height Safety Standards

Given the nature of our business, working at height is one of the most critical areas of focus.

To comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, we will:

• Plan all work at height thoroughly and assess risks in advance.
• Avoid work at height where possible, and use safer alternatives.
• Provide appropriate safety equipment, such as harnesses, lifelines, and anchor points.
• Ensure all employees working at height are trained, competent, and medically fit.
• Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment used for work at height.

5. Equipment Safety and Maintenance

Abseiling Services Ltd is committed to maintaining all equipment in safe working order and ensuring compliance with PUWER 1998 and LOLER 1998.

Key Measures:

• Regularly inspecting and testing all equipment, including lifting devices and tools, in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Maintaining comprehensive records of inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
• Providing clear instructions and training to employees on the correct and safe use of equipment.

6. Training and Competency Development

We recognise the importance of equipping all employees and contractors with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications needed to perform their roles safely.

Our training programs include:

• Induction Training: Covering general health and safety awareness and specific risks related to our operations.
• Work at Height Training: Comprehensive instruction on the use of fall protection systems, ladders, and scaffolding.
• Equipment Training: Covering the safe use of tools, machinery, and PPE.
• Emergency Response Training: Ensuring all employees know how to respond to fire, first aid incidents, and evacuation procedures.

All training records are documented, and refresher courses are provided as necessary to ensure ongoing competence.

7. Emergency Preparedness and Incident Response

To ensure the safety of all employees, visitors, and contractors, Abseiling Services Ltd has developed robust emergency procedures.

Key Provisions:

• Emergency Plans: Comprehensive response plans for fire, medical emergencies, and other incidents.
• Fire Safety: Regular fire risk assessments, training, and fire drills.
• First Aid: Adequate first aid coverage, with trained personnel and readily accessible first aid kits.
• Incident Reporting and Investigation: All incidents, accidents, and near-misses are reported, investigated, and analysed to prevent recurrence.

8. Consultation and Engagement

We believe in fostering a culture of safety through open communication and collaboration.

Consultation Methods:

• Regular health and safety meetings with representatives from all levels of the organisation.
• Encouraging employees to raise concerns, share ideas, and suggest improvements.
• Providing updates on health and safety performance and progress.

9. Monitoring, Auditing, and Review

To ensure this policy remains effective, Abseiling Services Ltd will:

• Conduct routine workplace inspections to identify and correct hazards.
• Audit health and safety management systems annually.
• Review this policy and associated procedures at least once a year or after any major incident or legislative change.

10. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions

Compliance with this policy is mandatory. Any breach of health and safety responsibilities may result in:

• Verbal or written warnings.
• Suspension or dismissal in serious cases.

Signed:
Paul Durning
Managing Director
Date: 30/01/2025