With summer arriving and the subsequent increase in seasonal work, workers are as likely to have an accident in the first six months at a workplace as during the whole of the rest of their working life.
The extra risk arises due to:
- lack of experience of working in a new industry or workplace
- lack of familiarity with the job and the work environment
- reluctance to raise concerns (or not knowing how to)
- eagerness to impress workmates and managers
This means workers new to a site:
- may not recognise hazards as a potential source of danger
- may not understand 'obvious' rules for use of equipment
- may be unfamiliar with site layout - especially where site hazards may change from day to day
- may ignore warning signs and rules, or cut corners
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced guidance on protecting new workers.
For further information please visit the HSE website.