ENVIRONMENT POLICY MICHAEL W HALSALL SOLICITORS 2 THE PARKS NEWTON-LE-WILLOWS MERSEYSIDE WA12 0NZ (01942) (01942)

Transcription

1 ENVIRONMENT POLICY MICHAEL W HALSALL SOLICITORS 2 THE PARKS NEWTON-LE-WILLOWS MERSEYSIDE WA12 0NZ (01942) (01942) info@halsalls.com 1

2 AMENDMENTS ISSUE DATE SECTION COMMENTS All Approved for issue All Review and update Addition of Non-Hazardous Waste Addition of Waste Storage Addition of Reuse and Recycle Addition of Vehicles Appendix A Addition of Environmental Advice and Useful Information Addition of Introduction Amendment to Statement of Intent (new layout) Amendment to Organisational Hierarchy (inclusion of Emma Walker (Human Resources Manager)) Amendment to Organisational Hierarchy (addition of Duties of the Human Resources Manager) Removal of Statutory Nuisance (Noise) Addition of Environmental Damage Appendices Removal of Environmental Advice and Useful Information (replaced with Appendix 1 - Environmental Information Sources Appendices Addition of Appendix 1 - Environmental Information Sources. Note This document has been specifically produced by TGF Consultants Ltd in conjunction with Michael W Halsall Solicitors as an Environmental Policy and is only suitable for use in connection therewith. Any liability arising out of the use by Michael W Halsall Solicitors or any third party of this document for purposes not wholly connected with the above shall be the sole responsibility of Michael W Halsall Solicitors who shall indemnify TGF Consultants Ltd (TGF) against any claims, costs, damages and losses arising out of same use. 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS AMENDMENTS 2 1 INTRODUCTION 5 2 STATEMENT OF INTENT 6 3 ORGANISATION 7 ORGANISATIONAL HIERARCHY DUTIES OF THE PARTNER WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY, HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT DUTIES OF PARTNERS DUTIES OF SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS DUTIES OF THE SAFETY, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL COORDINATOR DUTIES OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER DUTIES OF THE IT MANAGER DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES DUTIES OF CONTRACTORS 18 4 ARRANGEMENTS ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS PURCHASING REUSE AND RECYCLING TRAINING UNAUTHORISED RELEASE Prevention Watercourse Protection Containment Recovery Clean Up Report and Cooperate VEHICLES WASTES Controlled Waste 23 3

4 4.8.2 Hazardous Waste Non-Hazardous Waste Hazardous Substances Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) WASTE HANDLING Waste Storage Waste Transfer Notes 27 5 MONITORING AND REVIEW 28 APPENDIX 1 - ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION SOURCES 29 4

5 1 INTRODUCTION This document is the Environment Policy of Michael W Halsall Solicitors (the Company), and as such sets out the Company's aims and objectives for minimising the impact of its operations on the environment. The Company regards environmental protection as being an important function of management at every level, with responsibility for the observance of good environmental standards and practices resting firmly with the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment, supported by all Employees. For clarification, this Environment Policy is divided into the following sections: General Statement of Intent. Organisation within Michael W Halsall Solicitors for carrying out this policy. Arrangements for implementing Environmental protection. Arrangements for monitoring and reviewing this policy. 5

6 2 STATEMENT OF INTENT The policy of Michael W Halsall Solicitors (the Company) is to attain and maintain high standards of environmental performance and to this end the Company will pursue continual improvement from year to year. The Company will ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that we: Understand and comply with all necessary environment legislation and operate to the best practices of industry. Assess the environmental impacts of our operations. For example, from the use of Work Equipment (WE) and materials to the collection and ultimate disposal of wastes. Employ a consistent framework for the management of environmental issues during our operations. Reduce waste, conserve energy and explore opportunities to re-use and recycle. Endeavour to develop innovative processes that can reduce levels of environmental impact. Collaborate with our Suppliers and Clients to establish a greater environmental awareness. Remain alert and responsive to developing issues, knowledge and public concern. Ensure that our Employees are aware of the Environmental Policy and are motivated to apply it. Ensure that our Employees are aware of their own responsibilities and that they are given the support, information, instruction and training necessary to fulfil them. Emphasise that the Company's focus is on pollution prevention rather than abatement. Choose materials and resources with regard to their long-term sustainability. The Company appreciates the importance of the Environment Policy and to ensure its successful operation must take into consideration the views of its Employees. Therefore the Company will strive to develop a positive culture, based on consultation, cooperation and communication. Adequate resources will be made available to meet the requirements of the policy, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and any other associated environmental legislation. Michael W Halsall Solicitors will ensure the continuous monitoring of the Environment Policy to ensure its objectives are met. To this aim the Company will ensure that the policy is reviewed and updated at regular intervals to reflect legislative and/or organisational changes. Name: Position: Signature: Mr Michael Halsall Date: 21 st July 2009 Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and Environment 6

7 3 ORGANISATION Michael W Halsall Solicitors (the Company) has its Head Office at 2 The Parks and an additional premises at 11 The Parks, both of which are located in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside. The Company undertakes the provision of uninsured loss recovery claims and personal injury litigation services. Michael W Halsall Solicitors is ultimately controlled by its Senior Partner - Mr Michael Halsall. Mr Michael Halsall is identified as having overall responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment and is thus identified as the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. Mr Neville Wall is the Office Manager for the Company but for the purpose of this document he is identified as the Safety, Health and Environmental Coordinator. Mr Michael Halsall may delegate some of his environmental duties to the Safety, Health and Environmental Coordinator, on a daily basis. Where and when appropriate, he in turn may delegate some of his Health and Safety duties to Emma Walker (Human Resources Manager) or Mr Andrew McKee (IT Manager). They in turn, may delegate some environmental duties to a specifically nominated Employee on a daily basis, as required. Some operations carried out at the Company's Newton-le-Willows premises may be contracted to firms with which the Company has established and satisfactory relationships. Contractors to the Company have specific duties as defined in this Environment Policy. 7

8 ORGANISATIONAL HIERARCHY Michael W Halsall Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment Partners Safety, Health and Environmental Advisors Neville Wall Safety, Health and Environmental Coordinator Emma Walker Human Resources Manager Andrew McKee IT Manager Employees Contractors 8

9 3.1 DUTIES OF THE PARTNER WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY, HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT The Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment will: 1) be ultimately responsible for all environmental arrangements and ensuring that they are effectively implemented. 2) ensure that arrangements for the Policy are reviewed as often as appropriate, and as a minimum at least once a year. 3) ensure that monitoring of the Policy is undertaken as necessary. 4) ensure the arrangement of an adequate system for environmental incident reporting and investigation. 5) ensure the arrangement and implementation of a system of discipline for cases where a breach of this Policy occurs or where duties are not undertaken. 6) ensure that, in furtherance of its common law and statutory duties such as the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, Company Insurances are kept up to date and prominently displayed so as to be available for inspection at all reasonable times. The Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment will also ensure that, in accordance with the Employers Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations 1998, that the level of cover shall in aggregate be not less than 5 million. 7) ensure that when the Company employs Contractors, so far as is reasonably practicable, these Contractors are made aware of, and are subject to, the Company's Environment Policy. 8) ensure that any necessary information and training for the requirements of Safe Systems of Work (SSoW) are provided by the Company. For example, this includes, where appropriate, any processes concerned with special hazards related to Safe Systems of Work (SSoW), the operation of machinery or other methods of working. 9) ensure that suitable and sufficient Risk Assessments are undertaken in compliance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations The Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment is also ultimately responsible for ensuring that the results of these are communicated to all Employees. 10) when thought appropriate, delegate some environmental duties to another Partner or to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Human Resources Manager. It is also the responsibility of the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment to ensure that this information is communicated to all relevant persons to ensure that all relevant persons are aware of the duty changes. 11) ensure that information is given to Employees on general environmental topics. 12) ensure that when amendments are made to the Policy these amendments are circulated to all Employees and signed off by all Employees. 9

10 13) ensure the arrangement of accidental spillage control facilities. 14) ensure that all accidental spillage control arrangements are communicated to all Company Employees. The Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment will also ensure that all spillage control arrangements are regularly inspected and maintained. 15) ensure that Employees do not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 16) ensure that adequate instruction is given for the operation of Work Equipment (WE ), including those items used to control accidental spillages. 17) ensure that all Work Equipment (WE) provided is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that it remains suitable for the purposes for which it was intended. 18) observe all Company Rules 10

11 3.2 DUTIES OF PARTNERS The Partners will: 1) work closely with the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment in the provision of suitable and sufficient environmental arrangements, where required. 2) attend Partners Meetings and discuss Safety, Health and Environmental issues. 3) promote the Company's Safety, Health and Environmental Management system as an integral part of the way in which the Company operates. 4) set a good personal example and ensure that when others fail to consider the well being of the Environment, they are counselled and/or disciplined as necessary. 5) where appropriate, delegate environmental duties to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Human Resources Manager. 6) observe all Company Rules 11

12 3.3 DUTIES OF SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS Safety, Health and Environmental Consultants are employed on a demand basis by the Company to advise on: General Health, Safety and Welfare. Environmental Management. When Consultants are used they shall: Ensure they are competent to undertake the work required of them. Ensure enrolment on a programme of Continuing Professional Development or other lifelong learning scheme. Carry appropriate Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance. Report to the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. Advise Company Management to an agreed level. The Consultant services can include: 1) advice regarding current UK Environmental Legislation. 2) assistance in producing, reviewing and/or updating Company Environmental documentation. 3) assistance in advising on the legally required notification to the Enforcing Authority following an Environmental incident. 4) assistance in undertaking Environmental Inspections and Audits, where required. 5) assistance in incident occurrence investigation to determine root causes and to prevent recurrence. 6) provision of information regarding best practice for Environmental Management. 12

13 3.4 DUTIES OF THE SAFETY, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL COORDINATOR The Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator will: 1) work closely with the Partners and the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment in the implementation and supervision of environmental arrangements on the Michael W Halsall Solicitors premises (2 and 11 The Parks). 2) ensure that information is given to all Employees and Contractors on general environmental topics and any necessary specific information concerned with day-to-day operations. 3) ensure that any environmental incident involving Employees or Contractors during Company operations is reported immediately to the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. Any environmental near misses involving Employees, Contractors or others must also be reported to the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. 4) ensure that environmental instructions are incorporated into routine orders and that they are obeyed by all Employees and Contractors working at the Michael W Halsall Solicitors premises (2 and 11 The Parks). 5) be responsible for setting a good personal example and to ensure that when others fail to adequately consider the well being of the environment, they are counselled and/or disciplined as necessary. 6) ensure that Employees do not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 7) ensure that when the Company intends to employ contracted services, appropriate documentation is sought from perspective Contractors, including policies and procedures, so as to assess their suitability (competency). 8) ensure that when the Company employs Contractors, so far as is reasonably practicable, these Contractors are made aware of, and are subject to, the Company's Environment Policy. 9) ensure the regular inspection of Work Equipment (WE) to ensure it remains suitable for its' intended purpose, including its' general state of repair (eg: free from leaks). 10) delegate environmental duties, where appropriate, to the Human Resources Manager or to a competent Employee. It is the duty of the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator to ensure this information is communicated to all relevant persons to ensure that all relevant persons are aware of the duty changes. 11) ensure that accidental spillage control arrangements are provided and communicated to all Company Employees. It is also a duty of the Safety, Health & Environment Coordinator to ensure that spillage control arrangements are regularly inspected and maintained. 12) ensure that adequate instruction is given for the operation of any Work Equipment (WE), including those items used to control accidental spillages. 13) ensure that when amendments are made to the Policy these amendments are circulated to all Employees and signed off by all Employees. 13

14 14) observe all Company Rules. 14

15 3.5 DUTIES OF THE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER The Human Resources Manager will: 1) work closely with the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator in the implementation and supervision of the Michael W Halsall Solicitors environmental arrangements. 2) assist the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator in the dissemination of general environmental information to Employees and Contractors, including any specific information concerned with dayto-day operations. 3) ensure that any environmental incident involving Employees or Contractors during Company operations is reported immediately to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. Any environmental near misses involving Employees, Contractors or others must also be reported to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. 4) ensure that environmental instructions are incorporated into routine orders and that they are obeyed by all Employees and Contractors working on the Michael W Halsall Solicitors premises (2 and 11 The Parks). 5) in co-operation with the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator, ensure the suitability of Contractors by assessing their submitted policies and procedures, where relevant. 6) ensure that when the Company employs Contractors, so far as is reasonably practicable, these Contractors are made aware of, and are subject to, the Company's Environment Policy. 7) be responsible for setting a good personal example and to ensure that when others fail to adequately consider the well being of the environment, they are counselled and/or disciplined as necessary. 8) ensure that Employees do not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 9) delegate environmental duties, as required, to a competent Employee. It is also a duty of the Human Resources Manager to ensure that this information is communicated to all relevant personnel to ensure that they are aware of the duty changes. 10) observe all Company Rules. 15

16 3.6 DUTIES OF THE IT MANAGER The IT Manager will: 1) assist in coordinating environmental arrangements with the Human Resources Manager and the Safety, Health and Environmental Coordinator. 2) ensure that any environmental incident involving Employees or Contractors during Company operations is reported immediately to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Human Resources Manager. Any environmental near misses involving Employees, Contractors or others must also be reported to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or to the Human Resources Manager. 3) be responsible for setting a good personal example and to ensure that when others fail to consider the well being of the environment that they are counselled and/or disciplined as necessary. 4) ensure that Employees do not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 5) delegate Environmental duties to a competent person, as required. The IT Manager will also ensure that all relevant personnel are made aware of the duty changes. 6) observe all Company Rules. 16

17 3.7 DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES All Michael W Halsall Solicitors Employees have a duty to: 1) read and understand the Environment Policy and sign, as read and understood, the Health and Safety Documents Declarations Register (held by the Safety, Health and Environmental Coordinator). 2) avoid damage to the environment whilst undertaking their work activities. 3) cooperate with the Company's Environment Policy in meeting any environmental requirements. 4) report immediately to the Human Resources Manager or to the Health and Safety Coordinator, any environmental incident involving Employees or Contractors during Company operations. 5) make suggestions whereby any detrimental impacts to the environment caused by current working practices could be eliminated or reduced. 6) not interfere with, or misuse or abuse anything provided by the Company to protect the environment. 7) ensure that all materials and equipment are used correctly and to keep such materials and equipment in good condition. 8) be aware that only suitably trained and, where relevant, certified Employees are allowed to operate any equipment. 9) use all relevant accidental spillage control arrangements provided, when required. The Company will ensure that, when required, adequate instruction is given for the use of these items. 10) not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 11) observe all Company Rules. 17

18 3.8 DUTIES OF CONTRACTORS Contractors should note that the requirements given below form the basis of Environmental Rules for Michael W Halsall Solicitors Contractors. All Contractors have a duty to: 1) comply with the Michael W Halsall Solicitors Environment Policy and must, where appropriate, ensure their own Company Environmental Policy and Arrangements, where appropriate, are made available. 2) provide Method Statements and relevant Risk Assessments when carrying out activities, which could be detrimental to the environment. Method Statements must be agreed with the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or his nominated deputy before work begins and copies of Method Statements and Risk Assessments must be made available on-site so that compliance with the agreed Method Statement can be monitored/maintained. 3) ensure that any equipment used by Contractor's Employees is competently inspected to ensure that it is maintained in accordance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations ) ensure that their Employees do not interfere with, or misuse or abuse anything provided by the Company to protect the environment. 5) report immediately to the Safety, Health & Environmental Coordinator or his nominated deputy, any environmental incident involving any of its Employees or any other Contractors Employees, during Company operations. 6) ensure that their Employees obey any environmental instructions given by Michael W Halsall Solicitors. 7) ensure that any material or substance brought onto a Michael W Halsall Solicitors premises, is stored in accordance with relevant Regulations and current recommendations. 8) ensure that workplaces are kept tidy and any debris, waste materials, etc. is cleared away and appropriately disposed of in adherence with Local Authority (LA) Guidelines. 9) ensure that appropriate accidental spillage control arrangements are provided for use during their operations on the Michael W Halsall Solicitors premises (2 and 11 The Parks). 10) ensure that any accidental spillages are cleaned up immediately utilising appropriate spillage control equipment and materials, and ensure that any waste materials are disposed of in adherence with Local Authority (LA) Guidelines. 11) not engage in "horse-play" or practical jokes. 12) observe all Michael W Halsall Solicitors Company Rules. 18

19 4 ARRANGEMENTS Detailed in this section are the general arrangements that have been put in place to control environmental issues for the Company, based on the risks identified in the Company's Risk Assessments and any other requirements from current Legislation and accepted best practice. The arrangements are communicated to all Employees and any necessary additional information or training that has been identified is also provided. 4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE Michael W Halsall Solicitors will ensure compliance with the Environmental Damage (Prevention and Remediation) Regulations The Company understands that "environmental damage" means: Adverse effects on protected species or habitats (or a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)). Adverse effects to surface water or groundwater (by contamination leading to a reduction in water quality). Adverse effects to land (by contamination resulting in a significant risk of adverse effect on human health). Michael W Halsall Solicitors will take all reasonable steps to prevent environmental damage, however in the unlikely event that environmental damage is caused, the Company will: Take immediate action to prevent further damage. Notify the relevant Enforcing Authority of the damage. Assist in the identification of remedial measures. Implement such remedial measures as is required to remediate the damage to an acceptable level. 4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Michael W Halsall Solicitors undertakes an informal assessment of the impacts a particular contract may have on the surrounding environment during its duration and beyond. Even though an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not mandatory for this type of operation, the Company feels that it is important to foster a positive environmental culture for Employees. The Company will undertake their procedures using the Best Practicable Environmental Option (BPEO). For example, this may involve continuing research into the best methods to ensure Waste reduction. 4.3 PURCHASING Michael W Halsall Solicitors aim to purchase products from Suppliers who can demonstrate that the products originate from a renewable resource, for example timber products from sustainable forests. The Company will make reasonable enquires as to the validity of Suppliers' environmental claims and check registration with relevant awards (products branded with eco-symbols). 19

20 The Company will instil in its Employees this culture and will endeavour to foster it with both Suppliers and Clients alike. 4.4 REUSE AND RECYCLING The heightening awareness of "green" issues at corporate level has led to many Employers adopting Waste recycling initiatives. The Landfill Regulations 2002 require that liquid wastes are banned from landfill and that waste is treated before it can be consigned to landfill. Michael W Halsall Solicitors endeavours to ensure that an increasing volume of materials that are collected and segregated are reused and/or recycled as far as possible. As a substantial part of day-to-day operations Michael W Halsall Solicitors recognises the duty to reuse or recycle materials as a requirement of the Environmental Act Michael W Halsall Solicitors is aware that reuse and recycling can be economical, and hence desirable, due to: Lower costs for disposal and thus financial return. Conservation of resources. Reduction in damage to the environment. Reduced pollution. Commercial benefits derived from improved Employee morale/public image. Avoidance of legal proceedings. The Company will instil in its Employees this culture and will endeavour to foster it with both Suppliers and Clients alike. 4.5 TRAINING Michael W Halsall Solicitors recognises the need for Employee training, technical knowledge and experience as this is seen to be a necessary requirement to reduce the level of risk to the environment. The Company identifies and implements training needs for environmental requirements. All Employees are trained in the use of all relevant Work Equipment (WE) prior to its use. The Company ensure that its operations are properly planned and Employees versed in their use by a competent person. Special emphasis is given to any work practices which the Company infrequently undertakes so as to ensure that any risk to the environment is minimised. Records of both official and "on-the-job" training will be kept by the Company and made available for inspection where and when necessary. 4.6 UNAUTHORISED RELEASE Michael W Halsall Solicitors has adopted a responsible attitude towards the control of pollution and the environment. The Company is well aware of the serious implications that uncontrolled spillages can have on the environment and subsequently on the business. For example a failure to adequately control spillages can not only cause serious harm to the environment but can also put Employees and others at risk, 20

21 cause disruption and downtime reducing the Company's efficiency, and lead to potentially large fines and clean up costs. The Company will ensure awareness of all its Employees in the necessary procedures, responses and actions. The Company will also ensure it's Employees are provided with the appropriate level of instruction and training to enable them to carry out any necessary pollution prevention procedures. Michael W Halsall Solicitors will follow a hierarchy of pollution prevention and control, as identified below Prevention Michael W Halsall Solicitors will prevent spillages occurring as far as is possible by ensuring any Substances used during the Company's undertakings are stored in suitable containers. Substance containers will be safely stored away from working areas when not required and lids, caps, etc. replaced and secured after use Watercourse Protection Michael W Halsall Solicitors will prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any spillage of liquid or solid entering a drainage system during its undertakings. The Company will, should the need arise, provide suitable Drain Seals to protect drains which may lead directly into waterways and sewage plants Containment Michael W Halsall Solicitors will, should the need arise, contain any spillages to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any spilled liquid or solid causing further environmental damage. Responsive containment also ensures that spillages are able to be cleaned up with the minimum amount of effort required, whilst minimising any environmental damage potential. Suitable materials will be made available during Company operations to contain spillages, such as booms, etc Recovery Michael W Halsall Solicitors will recover and properly dispose of, so far as is reasonably practicable, any materials, spilled Substances, etc. The Company will ensure that any 'recovered' Substances and contaminated materials generated in the clean up process are re-cycled/re-used or properly disposed of in accordance with any Local Authority (LA) Guidelines Clean Up Michael W Halsall Solicitors will, should the need arise, ensure any spillages, and so far as is reasonably practicable, are properly cleaned up. 21

22 Suitable materials will be made available during Company operations to clean up any spillages, such as absorbent granules, etc Report and Cooperate 4.7 VEHICLES Michael W Halsall Solicitors will ensure reporting of larger spills to the appropriate governing body, such as the Environment Agency (EA) or Emergency Services. The Company will ensure any spilled liquids or materials that occur on a public highway that are considered to be dangerous or hazardous, and or causing traffic problems, are reported immediately to the Emergency Services. If the spillage fails to be controlled using appropriate watercourse protection, containment, etc. procedures, and enters a drain/waterway, the Company will ensure the incident is reported as soon as is reasonably practicable to the Environment Agency (EA). Michael W Halsall Solicitors operates vehicles for the transportation of Employees, Work Equipment (WE) and materials. The Company recognises that all vehicles on the road today contribute to climate change because their engines burn fuel and therefore produce carbon dioxide (CO 2 ). The Company carefully considers fuel options when purchasing new vehicles but generally opts for vehicles powered by diesel engines which produce less CO 2 when you take into account that the vast majority of miles undertaken during the Company's operations are long distance and/or motorway driving. It is important for the proper and safe functioning of this transport that proper maintenance and care is given to these vehicles so as to not only protect Employees and the General Public but also to ensure that such vehicles don't cause any unnecessary negative impact on the environment. Arrangements will be made by individual Employees for the regular maintenance and repair of their allotted vehicles at appropriate periods (in line with the manufacturers recommendations) to ensure a high degree of protection for themselves and the General Public. Each Employee has a duty to check the roadworthiness of the vehicle prior to embarking on any journey. A 'pool car' is made available to authorised Employees who are required to travel on Company business. The Company adopts a policy whereby the first user of the 'pool car' in any given week will carry out a list of basic vehicle checks to ensure they are satisfied as to the roadworthiness of the vehicle. The Company will make every attempt to reduce CO 2 emissions by reducing the workloads placed on the engines of Company vehicles. This will involve working closely with drivers of Company vehicles to ensure they adopt 'smart driving' technique to reduce the amount of fuel burnt and so cut down on CO 2 emissions. Such techniques will include: Checking that tyres are correctly inflated to minimise resistance when the vehicle is moving. This also extends the life of the tyre. 22

23 Checking that only those items required for the project are carried in vehicles to minimise weight. Ensuring that drivers obey the recognised speed limits and never exceed such limits. Encouraging appropriate gear selection (eg: changing up a gear when the rev counter reaches 2000rpm (diesel engines). Encouraging drivers to switch off engines when the vehicle is likely to be at a standstill for more than three (3) minutes or more. 4.8 WASTES Waste can be loosely defined as "...any Substance or object...which the holder discards or intends or is required to discard." The Environmental Protection Act 1990 also gives a definition of Waste as: i. "Any Substance which constitutes a scrap material or an effluent or other unwanted surplus Substance arising from the application of any process". ii. "Any Substance or article which requires to be disposed of as being broken, worn out, contaminated or otherwise spoiled". The Controlled Wastes Regulations 1992 (as amended) contain measures related to identifying the types of Waste that can legitimately be regarded as "Household", "Industrial" or "Commercial". Operations undertaken by Michael W Halsall Solicitors involve the regular handling of Waste materials. There are two (2) main categories of Waste covered by Environmental Protection Legislation. These are: Controlled Waste. Hazardous Waste. It is most important to establish which category of Waste is generated by the Company' undertakings, as the legal requirements relating to transportation and disposal are different for each Controlled Waste Michael W Halsall Solicitors ensures that: Controlled Wastes are properly and clearly identified. Controlled Waste is only removed in accordance with the requirements of the Local Authority (LA). Waste Transfer Notes (WTNs) are completed and held for at least two (2) years. All Waste that is not subject to more stringent legal requirements (ie: all low-hazard waste) is considered to be Controlled Waste under the Environmental Protection Act This includes all industrial and commercial Waste or any similar Waste, regardless of the type of premises. It also includes Waste generated by a private household and Waste collected by the Local Authority (LA) and that collected by the Company by way of skip operations. 23

24 4.8.2 Hazardous Waste The Hazardous Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2005 requires that Waste is recovered or disposed of without endangering human health and without using processes or methods which could harm the environment and in particular: Without risk to water, air, soil and plants and animals; Without causing a nuisance through noise or odours; and Without adversely affecting the countryside or places of special interest. Michael W Halsall Solicitors is aware of the requirement that, where Hazardous Waste is produced at, or removed from, any premises other than exempt premises, the premises must be notified to the Environmental Agency (EA). Michael W Halsall Solicitors understands that if more than 200kg of Hazardous Waste is generated per year then registration with the Environment Agency (EA) will be undertaken as required. The Company also understands that pre-notification to the Environment Agency (EA) is also required for individual consignments. Where the Company generates Hazardous Waste then suitable procedures will be established to maintain a register of that waste Non-Hazardous Waste Non-hazardous wastes are those wastes not having hazardous properties. To determine whether a waste is Hazardous or not, the Company will reference the List of Waste Regulations Hazardous Substances Hazardous Substances may be handled by Employees of the Company. The Company recognise that these Substances may present some considerable risks to the safety and health of Employees and can adversely affect the environment if released in uncontrolled ways. For this reason the Company will ensure, where practicable, that exposure to Hazardous Substances is prevented or adequately controlled. This will be achieved with observance of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). It is the aim of the Company that, wherever possible safer methodologies for the selection, use and disposal of Wastes are investigated so as to reduce harm to both people and the environment. This is a part of the Company's pollution prevention strategy. The Company will undertake COSHH Assessments of the Hazardous Substances that are most regularly used. If a Substance is used that is not covered by any current COSHH Assessments then an Assessment would be undertaken for it and included in the Assessment for the task that it would be used for. 24

25 In this way the Company also takes reasonable precautions to reduce the incidence of dust in the workplace in accordance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999, the Environment Act 1990 and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act The Company is aware that the generation of dust is a statutory nuisance and carries a general criminal liability (as defined by the Environment Protection Act 1990). If operations are being undertaken in areas where it is likely to cause problems then consultation will be entered into to abate the impacts of the work and to allay any fears and concerns that may arise. The Company believes in fostering a good community relationship in the areas in which its operations are undertaken and believe that this is a primary responsibility Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) Michael W Halsall Solicitors takes all necessary precautions to ensure that exposure to Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) is reduced so far as is reasonably practicable. The Company is aware of the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, which requires an Asbestos Survey of non-domestic premises. Michael W Halsall Solicitors has carried out a programme of sampling and analysis for Asbestos and ACM within the structure of 2 The Parks, inline with the requirements of the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations The results of which showed that no Asbestos or ACM are present. The sampling and analysis was carried out by a United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) Accredited Consultants. Michael W Halsall Solicitors will arrange for an Asbestos Survey of 11 The Parks, as required by the Control of Asbestos Regulations If the Survey determines the presence of Asbestos or ACM at 11 The Parks, a Risk Assessment will be undertaken and the information generated used to formulate a Safe Working Procedure to allow Company operations to continue Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Due to the nature of its undertakings, Michael W Halsall Solicitors uses a variety of electrical appliances during the course of its day-to-day operations. Therefore the Company recognises the need to comply with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2006 (WEEE Regulations). Many products contain electrical and electronic components, either for additional functionality or as peripheral parts. The definition of EEE in the WEEE Regulations is intended to extend only to those products that are dependent on electric currents or electromagnetic fields to work properly, meaning that it is the primary power source. 25

26 When the electric current is switched off, the product cannot fulfil its main function. If electricity is used only for control or support functions, the product could be considered to be outside the scope of the WEEE Regulations. The Company, therefore, aims to properly segregate and dispose of any Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment to allow it to be properly treated and managed according to the requirements of the Directive to contribute towards the environmental performance of all those involved in the lifecycle of Electrical and Electronic Equipment. The Company also notes the requirements of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (ROHS) Regulations 2006) which aims to reduce the waste management problems linked to Substances likely to pose risks to health and the environment. 4.9 WASTE HANDLING Michael W Halsall Solicitors recognises that it is a criminal offence to keep, treat or dispose of Controlled Waste by a method that may endanger human health or pollute the environment (Environmental Protection Act 1990). If any Waste requires removal and disposal then the Company will ensure that certified Waste handlers are contracted to undertake the work. A "Creator" or "Handler" of Controlled Waste has a duty to take all reasonable steps to: Prevent any person from knowingly causing or knowingly permitting the unauthorised disposal of Waste. Keep Waste secure so as to prevent escape. Transfer the Waste only to a registered Waste carrier, a Licensed Contractor or the Waste Collection Authority. Ensure that Waste transfer notes accompany the consignment. Keep adequate records for at least two (2) years from the date of transfer. Michael W Halsall Solicitors is aware that it is an offence for any person to transport controlled Waste in the course of business unless they are a registered carrier (Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991) and take all reasonable steps to ensure that contractors are assessed for competence in this respect Waste Storage For Wastes that require special attention due to their composition (ie: Wastes that would impose serious danger on those exposed to it), safe removal is imperative. During its operations, Michael W Halsall Solicitors may come across such Waste (ie: Hazardous Waste). On detection of this Waste, quarantine procedures are implemented whereby Hazardous Waste is carefully segregated and placed in sealed skips/containers. Arrangements are then made to ensure the safe removal of such Substances by the relevant registered and licensed Contractors. 26

27 4.9.2 Waste Transfer Notes Michael W Halsall Solicitors will cooperate with a licensed Waste handler in assuring that Waste Transfer Notes (WTNs) are correctly completed. Waste Transfer Notes (WTNs) can be designed to suit each producer/collector of Waste, subject to containing the following minimum information: Name of the Waste producer. Type of premises from which the Waste originates. Name and description of the Waste material. Method of containment. Date and place of transfer. To whom the Waste was transferred, and in what capacity. Any special problems associated with the Waste. 27

28 5 MONITORING AND REVIEW Michael W Halsall Solicitors will use 'active' and 'reactive' monitoring procedures to measure the effectiveness of the Policy. This may include the observance of standards and procedures, feedback from Employees and as a result of environmental incidents. The Company will assess the performance of the Policy on a regular basis and as required. For example, as a result of the findings made during the monitoring of the Policy. Circumstances, which may cause the Policy to be reviewed, could include: The introduction of new Legislation. The identification of new hazards. The introduction of new work practices. The re-organisation of roles and responsibilities within the Company. Monitoring of the Policy is the responsibility of the Partner with Responsibility for Safety, Health and the Environment. Michael W Halsall Solicitors will ensure that each and every Employee is made aware of the contents of this Environment Policy. After reading the Policy and ensuring that he/she is satisfied that they understand the contents, Employees sign and date a statement/list to that effect and this is kept in Company files. 28

29 APPENDIX 1 - ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION SOURCES Environment Agency (EA) North West Regional Office: North West Regional Office, PO Box 12, Richard Fairclough House, Knutsford Road, Latchford, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 1HT EA North West Regional Office Telephone: (Mon-Fri 8-6) EA Incident Hotline: (Freephone - 24 Hour) EA Hazardous Waste Registration Number: (Mon-Fri 9-5) EA Website: EA TGF Consultants Ltd (TGF): TGF Telephone/Facsimile: (01925) TGF Website: TGF Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs Website: Carbon Trust Website: Water UK Website: Energy Saving Trust Website: enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk Asher House, Barsbank Lane, Lymm, WA13 0ED safety@tgfconsultants.co.uk

30 working in partnership with TGF Consultants Ltd is a Health and Safety Consultancy based in Lymm in Cheshire. With over 15 years experience in Nuclear, Chemical, Construction, Retail, Leisure and Environmental Sectors we provide tailored and cost-effective services to our varied Client-base. TGF Consultants Ltd is working with Michael W Halsall Solicitors in order to implement a Safety Management System and ensure that this is monitored and updated to comply with the increasing volume of Health and Safety and associated Legislation. Asher House (01925) Barsbank Lane (01925) Lymm safety@tgfconsultants.co.uk Cheshire, WA13 0ED Forum of Private Business 30