Occupational health and safety annual induction training (duty to inform).

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, no 85 of 1993 (OHS Act), the employer must provide adequate information, instruction, training, and supervision to employees so that they can work in a way that is safe and without risks to their health or safety.

Without sufficient induction and training on good health and safety practices, misinformation, and inadequate knowledge of how to properly deal with workplace (“workplace” means any premises or place where a person performs work in the course of his employment.) hazards may give rise to injuries, illnesses or even fatalities. With a little time and attention, you can instill the right attitudes and approach, drive productivity and efficiency, a positive workforce and ultimately create a safe and compliant working environment.

Induction should not just be reserved for employees. Anyone who works under your control and direction, including self-employed people, contractors, and those on work experience, must have received information on the health and safety risks they may face and the measures in place to deal with them. Understanding that these people might not be familiar with your working environment and the safety systems you have put in place for regular employees, so it is important that they are briefed accordingly.

Understanding that as time passes people forget procedures they do not use frequently, work environment may have changed, roll players may have changed and thus it is vital to retrain and refresh all employees, contractors, and subcontractors annually. While doing the induction it is vital to stimulate the employee’s awareness and have them make recommendations that may not have been immediately obvious. With the whole team onboard working towards the same goal will assist with fostering a positive health and safety environment.

Health and safety induction can help in accomplishing the following:

• Promote a positive health and safety working environment for employees, contractors and clients.
• Understanding the applicable legislation and regulations.
• Ensure adequate knowledge of the various emergency procedures and who is trained to assist.
• Correct handling of equipment, tools, and machinery.
• Help employees know what their work responsibilities and limitations are.
• Ensure that employees are informed regarding the company’s policies and procedures including that of victimization. Section 26 of the OHS Act.
• Improvement both productivity as well as the quality of work.

Occupational Health and Safety Act clauses applicable to best understand and prepare for employee induction/training:

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