Every person arriving on a construction site for the first time must complete a site-specific induction before they are permitted to start work. For subcontractor personnel, this is in addition to their company induction and any CSCS card requirements. The site induction covers the specific hazards present, site rules, emergency procedures, welfare locations, traffic management, and reporting arrangements. Without a proper induction, workers are exposed to hazards they are not aware of and cannot protect themselves against.
Key Hazards
Workers starting tasks without knowledge of site-specific hazards and rules
Failure to evacuate correctly because emergency procedures were not briefed
Non-compliance with traffic management due to lack of awareness of the layout
Language barriers preventing understanding of critical safety information
Control Measures
Induct every subcontractor operative before they begin any work activity on the site.
Cover all site-specific hazards, rules, traffic management, and emergency procedures in the induction.
Verify the identity, CSCS card, and competency of every person attending the induction.
Issue a site pass or sticker only after the induction is complete and the register is signed.
Provide translated induction materials or interpreters where language barriers exist.
Include the locations of welfare facilities, first aid, fire points, and assembly areas.
Brief inductees on the near miss and hazard reporting system and how to raise concerns.
Refresh the induction content whenever site conditions, layout, or hazards change significantly.
Maintain accurate induction records showing who was inducted, when, and by whom.
Remember
No person may start work on site without first completing the site-specific induction.
The induction must cover site hazards, rules, emergency procedures, and welfare locations.
CSCS cards and identity must be verified at induction to confirm competency and right to work.
Translated materials or interpreters must be provided where workers do not speak fluent English.
Induction records must be maintained accurately and are subject to audit by the client and HSE.
A good induction gives every worker the knowledge they need to protect themselves from day one.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999