Policy Statement
Batten and Beam Ltd is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all employees, subcontractors, clients, visitors, and members of the public who may be affected by our work. We recognise our responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, and all other relevant legislation.
We aim to maintain the highest standards of safety across all our operations, including heritage restoration, general building works, and on-site activities.
1. Our Health & Safety Objectives
We will:
- Prevent accidents, injuries, and ill health.
- Provide safe working environments, tools, equipment, and systems of work.
- Ensure all employees and subcontractors are competent and trained.
- Assess and manage risks on every project.
- Promote a culture of safety, responsibility, and awareness.
- Continually improve our health and safety performance.
2. Responsibilities
Directors
- Hold overall responsibility for implementing this policy.
- Ensure compliance with legal duties and industry best practice.
- Provide resources for training, equipment, PPE, and supervision.
- Review the policy annually.
Managers & Site Supervisors
- Carry out risk assessments and ensure safe systems of work.
- Monitor on-site safety and enforce control measures.
- Communicate hazards, procedures, and responsibilities to workers.
- Ensure subcontractors follow Batten and Beam safety standards.
Employees & Subcontractors
- Take reasonable care of themselves and others.
- Follow safety instructions, training, and site rules.
- Use PPE correctly and report defects or hazards immediately.
- Never carry out unsafe practices or work under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
3. Risk Assessment & Safe Working Practices
Batten and Beam Ltd will:
- Conduct site-specific risk assessments for all tasks.
- Produce method statements for high-risk activities.
- Identify and control hazards, including working at height, manual handling, dust, lead, tools, and structural instability.
- Ensure appropriate supervision and training for all activities.
We prioritise heritage sensitivity by ensuring all safety measures align with conservation best practice.
4. Training & Competence
We will ensure all personnel:
- Receive relevant health and safety training (e.g., manual handling, working at height, asbestos awareness). Are briefed on site-specific risks before work begins (site inductions).
- Only operate equipment or machinery they are competent and authorised to use.
- Refresher training will be delivered as required.
5. Tools, Equipment & PPE
We will:
- Provide suitable PPE for all tasks (gloves, safety boots, masks, eye protection, hard hats).
- Inspect and maintain tools, ladders, and equipment regularly.
- Remove and replace defective equipment immediately.
- Ensure safe storage and handling of materials.
6. Welfare & Site Conditions
We will:
- Ensure adequate welfare facilities on all sites (toilets, handwashing, rest areas).
- Maintain clear access routes, good housekeeping, and safe storage areas.
- Control dust, noise, and hazardous substances.
- Prevent risks associated with poor ventilation, damp, or confined spaces—especially relevant in heritage buildings.
7. Incident Reporting & Emergency Procedures
- All incidents, near misses, and hazards must be reported immediately.
- We will investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
- First aid equipment will always be available on site.
- Emergency procedures will be communicated during inductions.
RIDDOR requirements will be followed where applicable.
8. Working with Subcontractors
All subcontractors must:
- Meet Batten and Beam Ltd’s health and safety standards.
- Provide evidence of competence and insurance.
- Follow our site rules, risk assessments, and control measures.
Non-compliance will result in removal from site.
9. Monitoring & Continuous Improvement
We will:
- Monitor site safety through inspections and staff feedback.
- Review procedures following incidents or changes in legislation.
- Continually seek to improve health and safety performance.
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Directors.
