Best practices in establishing a new employee orientation program
New employee orientation training is the process of introducing a new worker to the organization, their supervisors, co-workers, work areas, jobs, and health and safety. Providing information is critical to any employee, regardless of age, because they are not familiar with the hazards of the workplace. During orientation, each worker develops knowledge, skills and abilities to work in a safe manner. New employee orientation training should always be provided when an employee is:
- Starting a new job that they are unfamiliar with
- Returning from an extended period away
- New to the workforce
Orientation Checklist
MidSouthWest recommends that employers use an Orientation Checklist during the onboarding process to ensure that they deliver an orientation program that prepares employees for the risks and hazards of the workplace, and also to ensure that new employees get enough information to understand risks and hazards so that they can work safely Don’t forget to document the date of the orientation training and the material covered for your company records. Ask managers to follow-up with new employees shortly after the training to see if the employee has any questions or requires clarification on any issues discussed in the orientation. Make it clear that safety is the workers first priority and that they can always ask questions if they have concerns about health and safety. Keep training dialogue open and offer ongoing training opportunities to support changing workplace practices and legislation. |
![]() |
Sample Orientation Checklist:
|
Definitions:
Young worker: a worker who is under the age of 25, typically 15-24 years old. New worker: a worker of any age who has been on the job for less than 6 months, or a worker who is new to the industry e.g., an older worker who worked in an office environment and now works in manufacturing floor. |
Keeping Young Workers SafeAccording to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, new and young workers are three times more likely to be injured during the first month on the job than more experienced workers are. Young workers have not been exposed to various situations and they may lack the knowledge or experience to determine what is safe or unsafe. Further, young workers may be willing to take more risks at work because of increased excitement or a desire to impress colleagues or management.
To help teach safe workplace practices when training young workers, include practical, hands-on opportunities for the worker to perform the task under the supervision of an experienced worker. After the worker has had the opportunity to try the task themselves, ask them to demonstrate their knowledge by asking them to teach the task back to the experienced worker. Finally, it is important to stress that personal protective equipment is only effective if worn correctly, this includes protective eyewear and ear protection |
![]() |
Last updated June 13, 2018
Last updated June 13, 2018