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Site Induction

Last updated: March 2, 2019

What Does Site Induction Mean?

A site induction, also referred to as a contractor induction, is a form of introductory instruction that ensures that workers new to a construction site or facility are familiar with the layout and organization of that workplace, as well as with their responsibilities. Particular focus is placed on ensuring that workers are aware of the safety requirements and procedures they must follow within the workplace, along with any other relevant safety information (e.g. site-specific hazard labeling).

In most advanced jurisdictions (such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, etc.), it is a legal requirement that organizations conduct site inductions for all new on-site workers.

Safeopedia Explains Site Induction

It is the responsibility of the principal site operator to ensure that all employees receive proper inductions. The operator is either the site owner or the primary contractor (the contractor given responsibility to oversee all work on the site).

Site inductions can be considered holistic introductions to workplace safety, as they cover the entirety of the general safety requirements to which an individual employee would be subject, rather than focusing on a single niche in detail. Typical instructions given during an induction include coverage of primary hazards such as work at-height, restricted areas, electrical hazards, and site security. Also included are a description of emergency procedures and the location of first aid equipment, a discussion of housekeeping procedures, and information on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The induction process is additionally used to verify workers’ qualifications, such as ensuring that a forklift driver or other heavy-machinery operator has the appropriate licenses to do so.

As the induction process is more general, it does not necessarily cover all aspects of safety with the level of depth or specificity that a worker must receive in order to conduct tasks safely. Some workers—for instance, those handling electrical equipment or working with hazardous substances—may require further instruction or training in those areas to become eligible to begin their particular role. As this implies, site inductions do not necessarily provide sufficient instruction for a site operator to be considered as having met the legal obligation to ensure that an employee can work safely.

Site inductions do not necessarily take place on-site either. Depending on the demands of the induction, site inductions may be managed through the use of third-party software, classroom training, or through the use of a purpose-built induction facility.

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Synonyms

Contractor Induction

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