A health & safety induction is an essential process for introducing employees, contractors, or agency workers to workplace safety. It ensures new starters understand the health and safety requirements of their roles and fosters a culture of safety compliance.
A health & safety induction checklist can help you facilitate the process. Here we discuss what you might cover in a health and safety induction, with a sample checklist you can adapt.
What is covered in a health and safety induction?
A health and safety induction provides new employees with the foundational knowledge they need to work safely in compliance with workplace regulations.
Employees are briefed on:
Roles and responsibilities
Employees are informed about the specific tasks and duties expected of them, along with how their role contributes to the organisation’s goals and compliance with safety standards.
This ensures clarity on what is required and expected in their day-to-day work, promoting both efficiency and safety.
Safe work practices
New employees are taught the correct procedures and behaviours needed to perform their tasks safely, helping them avoid accidents and injuries. This includes understanding workplace policies, rules and risk assessments, safe use of equipment, and adherence to safety protocols.
Welfare arrangements
Information about facilities available to support employee wellbeing, such as rest areas, sanitary facilities, and provisions for breaks, is shared. This ensures employees know how to access resources that contribute to their comfort and safety at work.
Emergency contact details
Employees are provided with the necessary contact information for emergencies, such as who to call in case of an accident or a safety concern. This ensures quick and effective responses during critical situations, enhancing workplace safety.
Emergency arrangements
Employees are instructed on fire safety protocols, including the location of alarm points, fire exits, and assembly points. They are shown where first aid kits are located and introduced to first aiders. The induction also includes procedures for reporting accidents and incidents.
HR contacts
Details about how to reach the human resources team are provided, enabling employees to address concerns, access support, or discuss workplace policies related to their health, safety, and employment. Clear communication channels promote a supportive environment.
Manual handling
Manual handling training is essential for roles involving physical tasks. Employees are taught proper lifting techniques, the use of lifting aids, and when to seek assistance to prevent injury. These measures help reduce workplace injuries related to lifting and moving objects.
Hazardous substances
For roles involving hazardous materials, employees are guided on the safe handling and disposal of such substances. They are also made aware of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessments, ensuring they understand potential health risks and how to mitigate them.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
The correct use, storage, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) are thoroughly explained. Employees are also instructed to report any damaged or faulty PPE to their managers to ensure their safety and compliance with workplace standards.
Workplace hazards and housekeeping
Employees are taught to identify potential risks in the workplace, report them to their managers, and maintain a clean and orderly environment. This emphasis on hazard awareness and housekeeping helps prevent accidents and promotes a safe working environment.
Equipment, tools, and machinery
Training on the safe operation of machinery and tools is a critical part of the induction. Employees learn about emergency controls and how to minimise health risks such as repetitive strain injuries or vibration hazards, ensuring they use equipment effectively and safely.
Training requirements
Employees are informed of specific training they must complete to perform their role safely, such as equipment operation, manual handling, or hazard awareness training. These sessions ensure they have the skills and knowledge to work safely and competently.
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Guidance notes for employees
Employees share responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. Key reminders include:
- Fire safety. Identify your nearest exit, assembly point, and fire alarm locations. Be prepared to act quickly in an emergency.
- First aid. Learn the location of first aid kits and the names of trained first aiders.
- Accident reporting. Report all accidents, near-misses, and unsafe conditions promptly.
- Hazard awareness. Remain vigilant and report any hazards. Keep your workspace clean and organised to minimise risks.
- Use of PPE. Wear your PPE as instructed, maintain it properly, and report damage or faults to your manager.
Praxis42 Health and Safety Induction Training
Our online Health and Safety Induction Training covers all essential aspects of health and safety in the workplace, so new employees are aware of their responsibilities, can identify hazards, follow safe systems of work and report incidents.
The course can be tailored to your industry, business activities and company policies, as required. To find out more about bespoke training, please contact our friendly team on 0203 011 4242 or info@praxis42.com.
Adam Clarke
Managing Director (Consulting)
