The Necessity of Safety Orientations During New Employee Onboarding

Employers in all industries need to take steps to make the workplace a safe environment. Conducting safety orientations during onboarding for new employees can help accomplish this. According to research, employees who are new to their jobs may be more at risk of occupational injuries. There are several reasons why this may be the case, such as:

• Lack of experience and knowledge: New employees may not have adequate experience or knowledge to safely complete the tasks required in their new roles or may have come from companies that do not prioritize safety.
• Inadequate prior training: Employers may falsely assume that new workers have had previous safety training to address industry hazards or that certain safety aspects of the job are “common sense” and fail to address these knowledge gaps.
• Unfamiliar environment: A new job has a new environment and related hazards. For example, new employees may not know how to handle dangerous materials or use personal protective equipment properly. They also may not know where to report safety concerns or how to respond to workplace accidents or emergencies.
• Desire to make a good first impression: New workers may be eager to please their new employer, so they may take on more tasks or tasks that are beyond their expertise. They may also be hesitant to ask questions or seek guidance for fear of appearing to lack competence.

Safety orientations during new employee onboarding can address these issues and provide several key benefits, including:

• Improved safety: A comprehensive safety orientation can prevent injuries to new employees. It can also bolster their safety awareness and provide vital safety knowledge and resources.
• Reduced expenses: Fewer injuries mean fewer workers’ compensation claims and related expenses and fewer workdays missed.
• Improved morale and retention: Safety education during onboarding can demonstrate that employers care about workers’ well-being. This can lead to improved morale, which can increase productivity and retention.
  Although orientations may vary in their specifics, certain aspects can make them effective across industries and positions. These include ensuring the information is relevant, incorporating helpful resources (e.g., safety manuals and injury reporting protocols), and keeping the presentation engaging (e.g., using visuals and hands-on training). Following up and gauging comprehension of the information is also essential.

By holding effective safety orientations during onboarding, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to safety and prevent injuries.

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