The safest possible start – why your new hires need Day Zero training

What is Day Zero training?

Day Zero training is an early health and safety onboarding programme delivered before an employee's first day on the job. It covers your branch's safety policies and processes and highlights risks your new recruits might encounter in their role. It typically covers topics including:

• Emergency procedures
• Safe working practices
• Hazard identification
• Risk reporting protocols
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

The training provides a solid foundation in your business's approach to safety and outlines new employees' responsibilities in identifying and mitigating risk.

How should Day Zero training be delivered?

While nothing beats face-to-face Day Zero training, it can prove expensive and time-consuming for single hires. Online e-learning offers a convenient, cost-efficient alternative.

Core modules to consider are:

• Manual handling
• Fire safety awareness
• Working at height
• Workplace transport and traffic safety
• Display screen equipment (DSE)
• Site health and safety

What are the benefits of Day Zero training?

Day Zero training is an important first step in meeting your legal duties as an employer. By protecting staff health and safety at the earliest opportunity, you'll also reap the benefits of a positive compliance culture:

• Increased employee morale – By teaching new employees to take an active role in risk reduction, you lower the odds of workplace safety incidents, which boosts confidence, engagement and productivity.
• Regulatory compliance – Day Zero training builds employee awareness of critical H&S regulations, helping to avoid fines, penalties and reputational damage.
• Improved efficiency – Reliable safety knowledge helps your team stay focused and on task, preventing downtime caused by accidents, injuries and near misses.
• Happier customers – Robust compliance practices fuel quality customer service and a safe, secure working and retail environment.