Why Site Inductions Matter
A site induction is the first line of defence against accidents on any project. It ensures every person entering the site — whether a direct employee, subcontractor or delivery driver — knows the rules before they're exposed to any risks.
If someone is injured on site and they were never properly inducted, you could be held liable.
Who Is Responsible?
Under CDM 2015:
- The Principal Contractor is responsible for site-wide inductions on notifiable projects
- On smaller projects, the employer (or self-employed trader) must still ensure workers are informed of risks
Even on small domestic jobs, a basic verbal briefing covering key hazards should be documented.
What Must a Site Induction Cover?
There's no single prescribed list, but a thorough induction should include:
Site Rules and Access
- Site boundaries and permitted access points
- Signing in/out procedures
- Smoking, drugs and alcohol policy
- Visitors and deliveries procedure
Emergency Procedures
- Assembly point location
- Fire evacuation procedure
- First aid provision (first aider name and location of kit)
- Accident reporting procedure
Health and Safety Information
- Site-specific hazards (overhead lines, buried services, unstable structures)
- Required PPE and where to get it
- Plant and vehicle movements — pedestrian routes
- Permit to work systems in operation
Welfare Facilities
- Toilets and washing facilities
- Rest area and canteen
- Drinking water location
Recording the Induction
Always:
- Record the date and location
- List all topics covered
- Get a signature from each inductee
- Keep records for the duration of the project (and ideally longer)
A signed induction record is your evidence that the worker was informed. Without it, you're exposed.
Common Mistakes
- Running inductions too quickly — workers don't retain information given in a rush
- Not translating for non-English speakers — this is a legal obligation
- Giving the same generic induction regardless of the specific site risks
- Not re-inducting workers when significant site conditions change
Site Safety UK provides induction checklists and templates you can customise for each project.
