Starting a new apprenticeship is an exciting step toward building your career, but it also comes with new responsibilities. Whether you’re working on a construction site, in a warehouse, a manufacturing facility, or another industrial environment, safety must always come first.
Did you know? New workers face the highest risk of injury during their first 90 days on the job, making this period critical for establishing safe habits, expectations, and behaviours.
The foundation for a strong safety mindset is built early. As a manager or supervisor, you can shape how apprentices approach workplace safety by setting clear expectations and leading by example. These three essential safety practices can help your apprentices start their careers safely and confidently.
1. Have the Right Gear and Keep It On
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of the most visible parts of workplace safety, but it only works when it is worn correctly and consistently. A hard hat can’t protect you if it’s sitting in a truck, and safety glasses won’t prevent injuries if they’re hanging around your neck.
Before a worker starts any task, they should ensure PPE is in good condition, fits properly, and is appropriate for the hazards present. If equipment is damaged or doesn’t fit correctly, they should report it immediately and request a replacement.
PPE is the last line of defence. It should be used alongside safe work procedures, proper training, and hazard controls.
2. Learn to Identify Hazards and Report Them
One of the most valuable skills an apprentice can develop is the ability to recognize workplace hazards before an incident occurs. New workers often take cues from those around them and may be tempted to mimic the behaviours of experienced employees to fit in. When shortcuts are tolerated, apprentices can quickly adopt unsafe habits.
Teach your apprentice to identify and report hazards such as slippery surfaces, trip hazards, exposed electrical components, falling objects, and areas where moving equipment is operating. They shouldn’t assume someone else has already reported it. Ensure they follow your workplace reporting procedures and notify their supervisor immediately. Reporting hazards and near misses helps prevent injuries not only for them, but for their entire team.
3. Plan Before an Emergency Happens
Emergencies can happen without warnings. Fires, chemical spills, gas leaks, severe weather, power failures, and other unexpected events can require workers to evacuate quickly and safely.
Every apprentice should know:
- The evacuation routes closest to their work area
- Alternative exit routes if the primary path is blocked
- Where the designated muster point is located
- Who to report to after evacuating
- How emergency alarms and signals are communicated
During an emergency, apprentices may feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to respond. By regularly reviewing evacuation routes, muster points, and emergency procedures, supervisors can help build confidence, reduce panic, and ensure new workers know exactly what to do when every second counts. During an evacuation, they should stop work immediately, follow instructions from supervisors or emergency coordinators, and proceed calmly to the designated assembly area. They should never return to the building or worksite until authorized to do so.
It’s important to conduct evacuation drills throughout the year. These exercises should be taken seriously as they provide valuable practice and help ensure everyone knows exactly what to do during a real emergency.
Safety Starts on Day One
Every experienced tradesperson was once an apprentice. The habits established early can be the foundation of proper safety practices throughout an apprentice’s career.
