Providing Training and Information

All workers need to know how to work safely and without risks to health. Employers must provide clear instructions, information and adequate training for their workers. Workers also have responsibilities with regards to safety and health including cooperating with their employers and following the instructions they have received.

Employers must not forget contractors and self-employed people who may be working for them and make sure everyone has information on:

• hazards and risks they may face;
• measures in place to deal with those hazards and risks;
• how to follow any emergency procedures.

Some workers may have particular training needs, for example:

• new recruits need basic induction training in how to work safely, including arrangements for first aid, fire and evacuation;
• people changing jobs or taking on extra responsibilities need to know about any new safety and health implications;
• young workers are particularly vulnerable to accidents and employers need to pay particular attention to their needs, so their training should be a priority. It is also important that new, inexperienced or young workers are adequately supervised;
• worker representatives or safety representatives will require training that reflects their responsibilities;
• some people’s skills may need updating by refresher training.

The employer’s risk assessment should identify any further training needs associated with specific risks. If they have identified danger areas in their workplace, they must ensure that their workers receive adequate instruction and training on precautions they must take before entering these areas.

Employers also need to think about any legal requirements for specific job training. If employers introduce new equipment, technology or changes to working practices/systems, their workers will need to know about any new safety and health implications.

Workers also have responsibilities under international labour standards with regards to safety and health namely to:

• take care of their own safety and health and that of others;
• co-operate with employers to help them comply with their obligations;
• follow any instructions or safety and health training employers provide;
• tell employers about any work situations that present imminent and serious danger to their life or health;
• let you know about any other failings they identify in your safety and health arrangements.

Find out more

1. Health and safety training: A brief guide Leaflet