New employee safety orientation is an essential part of ensuring workplace safety and reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.  New employees may be unaware of the hazards within the organization, so developing an effective training program needs to be specific to your organization.  When developing a safety orientation program consider the following key points.

General safety information: Give new employees an overview of the company’s commitment to safety. Explain upper management's stance on safety and their encouragement to minimize and eliminate injuries.  Explain the importance of workplace safety, including the company's safety policies and how they are incorporated into business operations.  Encourage them to take an interest in safety as it is everyone’s responsibility to create a safe workplace.

Emergency procedures: Review with them evacuation routes, assembly points, and the proper response to various types of emergencies.  This could include fires, natural disasters, medical emergencies, or chemical spills. Explain the location and use of emergency equipment like fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exits.

Hazard identification and reporting: New employees need to know how to identify potential hazards in the workplace.  During the training, identify hazards such as slippery floors, exposed wires, or blocked emergency exits and encourage them to report it to the responsible individual.  As always, explain the importance that the safety of all employees is key to a safe and healthy workplace.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):  If their new hire’s position requires PPE to be used, the employer must demonstrate the proper use, fitting and maintenance of all applicable PPE including safety glasses, gloves, hard hats, hearing protectors, respirators, etc.  The importance of using PPE should be explained along with company requirements on when and where PPE is required to be worn.

Safe work practices: Each job position may require specific safety procedures that are relevant to the work environment.  Equipment operation, machine guarding, electrical safety, chemical handling, fall prevention and proper lifting techniques are just a few.  Emphasize the importance of following safety guidelines and encourage employees to ask questions if they are unsure about any procedures.

Ergonomics and workstation setup: Ergonomics is key to minimizing and preventing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.  Educate and provide guidance to employees on proper posture, chair adjustment, monitor height, and the use of ergonomic tools like wrist rests or adjustable keyboard trays.

Safety resources and contacts: New employees need to be informed about the available safety resources at your facility.  Make them aware of safety manuals, posters, training materials, and online resources.  In addition, provide them with contact information for the safety team, safety representative or relevant personnel who can address safety concerns and provide any additional guidance.

Ongoing training and communication: Ongoing safety training and communication is key to a sustainable safety program at any organization.  Participation is important, so encourage employees to participate in safety meetings, refresher courses and reporting safety concerns.  Set a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards, near misses or accidents.

Accident Reporting: Ensure new employees are trained on the facility's accident/incident reporting system including near misses.  Explain to them that this reporting will help to prevent future accidents, eliminate hazards, identify deficiencies on equipment, reduce compensation costs and boost employee morale.  Creating a culture where employees identify situations that could result in accidents involving employees, machinery or vehicles before they happen make for a safer workplace and demonstrate the organization's commitment to safety. 

Remember, safety orientation should be tailored to the specific hazards and work environment of your organization.  Address the importance of safety and its commitment to the organization.  Remind them that rules, regulations and disciplinary action have been created to protect each employee from injuries and illnesses.

For questions or additional information please contact Andrew Sawan at 330.819.4728 or andrew.sawan@sedgwick.com.