WORKPLACE INDUCTIONS

Workplace inductions

Introduction

This document outlines the essential health and safety policies and procedures for our workplace. All employees must understand and adhere to these guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.

Induction Checklist

A comprehensive induction checklist is available to assist new employees in familiarizing themselves with our workplace’s health and safety regulations. This checklist covers essential topics such as emergency procedures, hazard identification, and reporting mechanisms.

New Employees/Workers

New employees/workers may be particularly vulnerable to inappropriate behaviors like bullying, discrimination, and harassment. It’s essential to create a workplace culture that promotes respect and inclusivity. Employees should be encouraged to report any such incidents without fear of retaliation.

Rights and Responsibilities

Workers: Employees have the right to a safe and healthy working environment. They are responsible for following all safety procedures and reporting any hazards or concerns.

Supervisors: Supervisors play a crucial role in maintaining a safe workplace. They are responsible for:

• Enforcing safety guidelines: Ensuring that their team members follow all established safety procedures and protocols.
• Providing necessary training: Making sure that employees have the knowledge and skills to perform their tasks safely. This includes regular safety training sessions and updates on new safety regulations.
• Identifying and addressing hazards: Regularly inspecting the workplace to identify potential hazards and taking steps to eliminate or mitigate them.
• Investigating accidents and incidents: Conducting thorough investigations into any workplace accidents or incidents to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
• Promoting a safety culture: Fostering a positive safety culture within their teams by encouraging employees to report hazards and participate in safety initiatives.

Employers: Employers have the primary responsibility for providing a safe and healthy workplace. They must implement appropriate safety measures and investigate any reported incidents.

Hazards and Risks

Identify the workplace-specific hazards and risks associated with your workplace and employees’ jobs.

This may include:

• Physical hazards: Noise, vibration, temperature extremes, hazardous substances
• Biological hazards: Bacteria, viruses, fungi
• Chemical hazards: Toxic substances, irritants
• Ergonomic hazards: Poor posture, repetitive movements
• Psychological hazards: Stress, bullying, harassment
• Develop strategies to control these hazards and minimize risks.

Reporting Concerns

Employees should know who to contact if they have concerns about health and safety matters. This could include their supervisor, human resources representative, or health and safety representative.

Safe Work Procedures

Outline the specific safe work procedures applicable to various tasks.

These procedures should cover:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): When and how to use PPE
• Safe work practices: Correct techniques and procedures
• Emergency procedures: Steps to follow in case of an accident or emergency

Emergency Procedures

Develop clear and concise emergency procedures, including:

• Evacuation routes: How to safely exit the building in case of an emergency
• Assembly points: Where employees should gather after evacuation
• Emergency contacts: Numbers for emergency services and company contacts

Key Personnel

Identify the following key personnel in your workplace:

• First aiders: Trained individuals who can provide basic medical assistance
• Fire wardens: Responsible for coordinating fire safety measures
• Health and safety representatives: Elected employees who represent the interests of their colleagues on health and safety matters

Incident and Hazard Reporting

• Establish a procedure for reporting incidents and hazards.

This should include:

• How to report: Methods for reporting incidents, such as written reports or online forms
• Investigation process: How incidents will be investigated and addressed

Other Work Matters

• Sickness: Procedures for reporting absence due to illness
• Pay and timekeeping: Policies related to pay, time off, and timekeeping
• Working hours: Regular working hours and overtime policies
• Eating and parking facilities: Availability of facilities for employees
• Social matters: Any company-sponsored social events or activities

By implementing these policies and procedures, you can create a safer and healthier working environment for all employees.