Health & Safety Policy

1. Statement of Intent

X-Eagle (Xeagle Ltd) is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all employees, sub-contractors, customers, and members of the public affected by our operations. We recognise our duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and all associated regulations.

We will, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure that:

• Safe systems of work are established and maintained
• Adequate training, instruction, and supervision are provided
• The working environment is safe and without risks to health
• Risk assessments are carried out and regularly reviewed
• Adequate welfare facilities are provided
• This policy is reviewed and updated annually

2. Responsibilities

Directors and Management are responsible for:

• Setting the health and safety policy and ensuring it is implemented
• Providing adequate resources for health and safety measures
• Ensuring risk assessments are completed and acted upon
• Investigating accidents and incidents and implementing corrective actions
• Ensuring all staff receive appropriate health and safety training

Employees and Sub-Contractors are responsible for:

• Taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others
• Cooperating with management on health and safety matters
• Using equipment and vehicles in accordance with training provided
• Reporting any hazards, unsafe conditions, or incidents promptly
• Not interfering with or misusing any safety equipment or provisions

3. Driver Safety

The safety of our drivers is paramount. We implement the following measures to protect our drivers and other road users:

• Licence checks: All drivers must hold a valid and appropriate UK driving licence, which is verified before engagement and checked periodically
• Hours of work: We monitor driving hours to prevent fatigue-related incidents, in compliance with the Road Transport (Working Time) Regulations 2005
• Mobile phone policy: Strict prohibition on using handheld mobile phones whilst driving
• Speed limits: All drivers must observe posted speed limits and drive to the conditions of the road
• Alcohol and drugs: Zero tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs; any driver suspected of being under the influence will be immediately removed from duties
• Adverse weather: Drivers are instructed to exercise additional caution or delay journeys during severe weather conditions
• Load security: All loads must be properly secured before departure to prevent shifting during transit

4. Vehicle Maintenance

All vehicles operating under X-Eagle must meet the following standards:

• Valid MOT certificate (where applicable) and road tax
• Comprehensive insurance cover
• Regular servicing in accordance with manufacturer schedules
• Daily vehicle walkaround checks covering tyres, lights, brakes, mirrors, fluid levels, and load security equipment
• Prompt reporting and rectification of any defects
• Vehicles with serious defects must not be used until repaired

5. Risk Assessment

We carry out risk assessments for all significant work activities. Risk assessments are:

• Documented and communicated to relevant staff
• Reviewed annually or whenever there is a significant change in work practices
• Updated following any accident or near-miss incident
• Covering driving, manual handling, loading/unloading, customer site visits, and office activities

6. Manual Handling

Manual handling is a key risk in courier operations. We manage this risk through:

• Training all drivers and warehouse staff in safe manual handling techniques
• Providing mechanical aids (tail lifts, pump trucks, trolleys) where appropriate
• Setting maximum weight limits for individual manual lifts
• Encouraging team lifting for heavy or awkward items
• Assessing customer sites for manual handling risks before delivery

7. Accident & Incident Reporting

All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported immediately to management. Our reporting procedure includes:

• Immediate first aid and emergency response as required
• Recording all incidents in the company accident book
• Investigating the cause of all accidents and near misses
• Implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence
• Reporting injuries, diseases, and dangerous occurrences to the HSE under RIDDOR 2013 where required
• Maintaining records for a minimum of three years

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Where risk assessments identify the need for PPE, we will provide:

• High-visibility vests or jackets for all drivers
• Safety footwear for loading and unloading operations
• Gloves for handling rough, sharp, or contaminated items
• Any additional PPE required for specific customer sites or specialist loads

All PPE is provided free of charge and must be worn as directed. Damaged or worn PPE must be reported and replaced promptly.

9. Training Programme

We provide comprehensive health and safety training including:

• Induction training: All new employees and sub-contractors receive health and safety induction before starting work
• Manual handling training: Practical training in safe lifting and carrying techniques
• Driver safety: Defensive driving, load security, and vehicle checks
• First aid: Designated first aiders are trained and certificates kept up to date
• Fire safety: Fire awareness training and regular fire drills at office premises
• Refresher training: Regular updates and refresher courses to maintain awareness and competence

10. Policy Review

This health and safety policy is reviewed annually by the directors of Xeagle Ltd, or sooner if there are significant changes to our operations, legislation, or following a serious incident.

For health and safety queries or to report a concern, contact us: