Workplace Health & Safety Induction Checklist
A practical checklist for supervisors to complete before any worker or contractor begins on-site - covering physical safety, psychosocial health and compliance sign-off.
What's in this workplace heath and safety induction checklist?
This checklist walks supervisors through five key areas of a compliant WHS induction: pre-start verification of qualifications and PPE, site orientation, health and safety procedures, psychosocial health and wellbeing, and employment and site conditions.
It includes a signed acknowledgement section for both the worker and supervisor, creating a documented record that the induction was completed in accordance with applicable WHS and OHS legislation.
How to use this checklist
Complete every section before the worker or contractor begins on site. Mark each item yes or no - if you mark any item no, take action to address the gap before work commences.
Once all sections are complete, have both the worker and supervisor sign the acknowledgement page and retain a copy on file as part of your compliance records.
Why WHS inductions matter
A proper induction is one of the most important steps in protecting both your workers and your business.
It ensures every person on site understands the hazards, knows how to report concerns, and has been briefed on their rights - including psychosocial risks like bullying, fatigue and excessive workload.
Under Australian WHS and OHS law, failing to conduct a documented induction can expose your business to significant regulatory and legal risk, particularly if an incident occurs early in a worker's time on site.
FAQs
Is a WHS induction legally required in Australia?
Yes. Under Australian WHS and OHS legislation, employers are required to provide workers with the information, training and instruction necessary to do their work safely.
This includes a site induction before work begins. Failing to induct a worker - particularly one who is then involved in an incident - can expose a business to significant penalties and legal liability.
Does a WHS induction need to cover psychosocial hazards?
Yes. Since 2021, all Australian jurisdictions have introduced obligations to manage psychosocial hazards in the workplace.
A compliant induction should explain what psychosocial hazards are, how workers can report concerns, and confirm that workers understand their right to raise issues without fear of reprisal or adverse action.
Does a WHS induction apply to contractors, not just employees?
Yes. Your employer duty of care extends to contractors, labour hire workers and visitors - not just direct employees. Anyone commencing work on your site should receive a documented induction that covers the relevant hazards, site procedures and their rights and responsibilities under applicable WHS and OHS legislation.
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