Educational workplace-safety awareness — connected to industries, occupations, employment law, employment documents and company types. Informational only — not legal advice and not a substitute for mandatory workplace safety training; employers remain responsible for compliance, training and worker authorization.
Who this guide is for
This guide is for agency, temporary and contract workers who may work at different sites. It offers general awareness of safety topics that come up when you are placed somewhere new.
It does not replace the induction, instruction and training provided by the site where you are working, which always come first. Both your agency and the place where you work have duties for your health and safety; ask who to speak to at each site, and follow the official authority where you work.
What to expect
- A site induction at each new placement, even if the work seems familiar.
- Clear information on who supervises you and who to ask for help.
- Instruction on the specific tasks and any equipment you will use on site.
- Details of PPE — what is required and who provides it.
- Information on reporting concerns, incidents and near misses on that site.
Key things to know
- Ask for a proper induction before starting work at any new site.
- Only do tasks and use equipment you have been shown and authorised to use there.
- Check who provides your PPE and that it fits and is in good condition.
- Know who your on-site supervisor is and how to reach your agency contact.
- Tell someone if you are placed in a role you have not been trained for.
Working safely in general terms
- Treat each site as new and learn its specific hazards, exits and rules.
- Wear the PPE the task and the site’s risk assessment require.
- Follow the site’s safe systems of work, not just habits from a previous placement.
- Keep your contacts for both the site and your agency to hand.
- Speak up early if anything is unclear about your task or the site.
If something feels unsafe
- Stop if continuing could put you or others at risk.
- Raise it with your on-site supervisor straight away.
- Also tell your agency, as both have a duty toward your safety.
- Report incidents and near misses through the site’s reporting process.
- Do not feel pressured to take on tasks you have not been trained or authorised for.
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