What is the best duration and frequency for toolbox talks?

Toolbox talks are most effective if they last a few minutes at the beginning of a meeting or the start of each work day or the end of the day when employees, supervisors and/or employers spend some time thinking of a short message to help colleagues focus on safety and how best to stay safe.

Toolbox talks should be given daily, or every other day, and last up to ten minutes. The duration and frequency are largely dependent upon the tasks of the employees and the jobsite. On a jobsite with more potential risks and hazards, the employees might benefit from daily toolbox talks to ensure that the safety topics are always fresh in their minds.

The end result of toolbox talks should be to keep employees up to date about specific safety issues. Safety moments also aim to nurture a workplace safety culture, which shows value for and reinforces safe practices. They are used to highlight that the company wants everyone wants to finish the day in safe and healthy shape.