Your Safety is Your Journey: Part 2 – Daily Inductions

Talk about safety every day

Introduction

Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and the same applies to safety. In Part 2 of our series, “Your Safety is Your Journey,” we delve into the concept of daily inductions. Regardless of whether it’s your first day or your thousandth, it’s vital to recognise that hazards can emerge unexpectedly. We will explore the importance of taking time to adjust to your surroundings, prioritising safety information, and the role of supervisors in ensuring a safe work environment.

Adjusting to Your Surroundings

Upon arrival at your workplace or any new environment, it’s crucial to take a moment to adjust to your surroundings. Just because you are familiar with the location doesn’t mean that new hazards won’t be present. Hazards can change from one moment to the next, and complacency can lead to accidents.

Consider the following steps to adjust to your surroundings:

Observe your immediate environment for any unexpected objects, debris, or damaged equipment.
Ensure that safety measures, such as guards, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits, are in place and functional.
Always be aware of your surroundings and the actions of those around you.

Prioritising Safety Information

One of the keys to maintaining safety in any work environment is to prioritize the information you need to process first. This information can come in various forms, such as emails, log files, or verbal briefings. Taking time to consume this information is not a mere formality; it is the foundation of how you make your day safe.

Make it a habit to:

Scan emails for safety updates, new procedures, or critical information related to your work.
Review log files or reports for potential faults, malfunctions, or irregularities that may affect safety.
Be proactive in seeking out safety-related information and clarifications when needed.

Shift Handover Briefings

For those working shifts, shift handover briefings play a pivotal role in ensuring safety continuity. These briefings should cover not only the operational aspects of the job but also safety concerns. Questions like, “What events or things should I be aware of that may have an impact on the safety of me, my team, and/or site visitors?” should be addressed.

During shift handovers:

Discuss any ongoing safety concerns, incidents, or near misses.
Share information about potential changes in conditions or hazards.
Ensure that the incoming team is well-informed about safety protocols and procedures.

The Role of Supervisors

Supervisors play a critical role in creating and maintaining a safe work environment. They are responsible for providing accurate, relevant, and succinct safety briefings to their staff. These briefings should encompass not only general safety guidelines but also specific information related to the day’s work.

To ensure effective safety briefings:

Stay up-to-date on safety regulations and industry best practices.
Be clear and concise in your communication, emphasizing key safety points.
Encourage open communication with your team, allowing them to voice safety concerns and ask questions.

Conclusion

Daily inductions are an integral part of your safety journey. Whether you are a new employee or a seasoned professional, taking time to adjust to your surroundings, prioritising safety information, participating in shift handover briefings, and delivering clear safety briefings as a supervisor all contribute to a safer workplace.

In the next instalment of our series, we will explore the importance of continuous safety training and how it helps individuals and organisations stay prepared for emerging risks and challenges. Remember, safety is not a one-time event but a daily commitment that ensures everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.