Site Toolbox Talks

The TOOLBOX TALK programme, if implemented correctly, can play a major part in the continuing effort to create an increased awareness of:

1: hazards present in the industry

2: precautions which must be taken to eliminate or control them

And in doing so will help to reduce unwanted incidents

The development and maintenance of a safe working culture can only be effective if everyone is included and actively involved. The use of “Toolbox Talks” is an invaluable means of involving those most at risk, the employees, sub contractors and self employed, without incurring any significant time or financial penalty.

Legal Requirements

The requirement for employers to consult their employees on matters concerning health & safety was introduced in the “Health & Safety at Work Act 1974”. This is then re-enforced in the “Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999, and in addition, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (amended 2003) introducing requirements to consult on matters of health & safety at site level.

Format

There is considerable flexibility enabling the trainer to adapt the content to their specific requirements, but the standard format used comprises the following:

1. An Introduction: A few lines that can be used to introduce the particular talk, most including why it is important.
2. Main points: Three to Five primary points that it is recommended are included in the toolbox talk.
3. Discussion points: A list of other points to choose from. All can be covered and the formats used like a script if required or particularly relevant points can be selected. The site scale, activity and available time may determine the best option.
4. A Quote: Each toolbox talk ends with a quick quote by way of summary. In the main, these are deliberately “catchy” in the hope that they will be remembered.

Frequency

The frequency will depend upon the individual requirements and approaches, and also on the site conditions. On larger sites it may be necessary to give the same toolbox talk several times in order to ensure all sub-contractors etc, are addressed, or it may be more practicable to give the same toolbox talk at different locations on site, i.e. a different floor/level each day. On smaller sites, it may be simple enough to address all site personnel at once.

It is recommended to aim to give a toolbox talk to every employee, sub-contractor and self employed person once a week.

For more information (and / or the onsite delivery of Toolbox Talks)

contact PIRA on 01803 295510