A Checklist about Workplace Safety
For your first few days on your new job, print out this safety checklist and carry it around in your pocket. Pull it out and check frequently.
- Is orientation and training offered to new hires? When does it start? How long does it last?
- Will I be able to observe coworkers in action during orientation/training?
- Are there potential hazards I should know about? (chemicals, ladders, moving equipment, fork lifts, scaffolds, confined spaces, electrical contacts, guards/lockouts, hot grills/oils, slippery surfaces, etc.)
- Who do I go to if I have a question, or if I need to say ‘no’ to unsafe work?
- Is there a “buddy system” where I get paired up with a more experienced worker who has a good safety record? Does that employee always stick around when I'm working?
- Is there any training material I should read? Where is it kept?
- Where is the personal protective equipment kept? Does it fit me properly?
- When was the last time the workplace was safety-inspected? Did everything pass? Where are such records kept?
- When is the next safety inspection due? How can I participate?
