Site or project inductions

Construction project inductions are a valuable tool to inform new employees on a project, engage with them and make them feel part of the team. Unfortunately in many cases this opportunity is missed. Most of the construction project I’ve attended have been poor, presented only by the project safety officer, and normally focussed on a few common safety issues (sometimes these aren’t even particularly relevant to the project).

Most employees arrive on a new construction project and have numerous questions of their own such as; the hours of work, scheduled days of work and rest, what they’ll be doing, accommodation and transport arrangements, and where the site facilities (such as toilets and eating  areas) are. I find it’s useful to provide this information early in the induction so that employees can better focus on the other topics.

To lend some importance to the project induction the project manager, or another senior staff member, should welcome the employees to the project.

It’s useful to tell employees a bit about the construction project; what’s been built, what the company is responsible for, the expected completion date and progress to date.

"Discuss specific safety concerns related to the construction project."

It’s important to discuss safety concerns related to the specific construction project. Highlight actual hazards and risks, and the safety procedures to be implemented. Discuss the safety equipment to be used and where it’s located. Other important topics are what to do in the event of an emergency, who to report hazards to and the reporting procedures for incidents and accidents

"Talk about specific environmental hazards."

​Furthermore it’s important to highlight environmental hazards; areas which are out-of-bounds, what to do when fauna is encountered on site, how to deal with waste and the cleaning up and reporting of environmental spills and accidents.

In addition the opportunity should be used to highlight the rules and regulations on the project, disciplinary and grievance procedures and the expected quality standards.
#constructionsafety #constructionprojects #constructionmanagers 

​Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
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