Induction

Key messages

Employers need to ensure that all drivers and operators understand company policy and procedure on:

• health and safety;
• use of drugs and alcohol; and
• the penalties for failing to follow instructions and safe working practices.

Health and safety standards

Think about what you need to tell new employees about the job, for example:

• How are the workplace routes laid out?
• Who is authorised to drive, and where?
• How and where should the worker report faults or hazards?
• How should they report accidents and near misses?
• What daily, weekly and monthly checks should they make?
• What particular risks are there in your workplace?
• What can they do to reduce or eliminate these risks?
• Do drivers and operators need personal protective equipment, such as high-visibility clothing, head protection, driver restraints, safety boots and equipment to prevent falls?
• Do they know where protective, safety and first aid equipment is kept, and when and how to use it?
• If English is not their first language, how will you make sure they understand the instructions you give them?

Drugs and alcohol

Employers, managers and supervisors should never allow anyone who is unfit through drink or drugs (prescription, over-the-counter or illegal) to drive any vehicle.

A contract of employment should state your company policy on the use of drugs and alcohol; this should include evidence that random testing has been considered. The policy statement should allow workers to report their use of prescription and 'off-the-shelf' medication.