General safety briefing

Read every section and sign the electronic acknowledgement before beginning work.

This is for smaller, lower-complexity jobs. It does not replace a site-specific induction, task-specific RAMS, COSHH assessment, permit or training where any of those are required.

Before you start

Report to the person in charge. Confirm the work area, welfare, first aid, fire and emergency arrangements. Only carry out work you are trained, competent and authorised to do.

PPE and public protection

Wear safety footwear and high-visibility clothing as a minimum. Use task-specific head, eye, hearing, hand and respiratory protection. Maintain barriers and keep clients, residents, visitors and the public away from the work area.

Tools, access and work at height

Check tools, leads, guards, ladders, towers and access equipment before use. Isolate anything defective. Never improvise a platform or work at height without suitable equipment and controls.

RAMS, dust and hazardous substances

Read and follow the task-specific RAMS, COSHH information and permits where required. Use extraction, wet methods and suitable face-fit-tested RPE when specified. Stop if the method, material or conditions change.

Manual handling and housekeeping

Plan lifts, use mechanical aids or team lifting when needed, and avoid unsafe loads. Keep walkways, exits and work areas clear. Remove waste regularly and store materials securely.

Fire, conduct and reporting

Keep escape routes clear and know how to raise the alarm. No alcohol, non-prescribed drugs, horseplay or headphones while working. Report hazards, damage, spills, accidents and near misses immediately.

Stop-work rule: if anything is unsafe, unclear or different from the agreed method, stop immediately, make the area safe and tell the person in charge. Call 999 for a serious or life-threatening emergency.