Induction Checklist: Who is responsible for training labour hire workers?

29 September 2022
Induction Checklist: Who is responsible for training labour hire workers?

An induction is more than just explaining the company’s purpose and a guided tour of the building. Inductions and training help new employees understand how to best perform in their role, train them to use the company’s systems, and introduce them to their key colleagues.

Most importantly, inductions are a critical measure to ensure workers know how to carry out their role safely.

Inductions are typically held in the form of on-the-job training, online modules or in some cases, require the employee to complete a formal course. This can span over the course of a few hours or even days.

Who is responsible for training labour hire workers?

Providers are responsible for:

  • Ensuring their labour hire workers are fully trained before supplying them to hosts
  • Providing paid refresher training to ensure workers maintain current knowledge relevant to their role.

Untrained workers may not understand specific occupational health and safety requirements of their job, putting them at greater risk of harm. They also pose a safety risk to their colleagues and employees of the labour hire host.

Example: A cleaner who is unsure of how to use specific cleaning chemicals may accidentally misuse them, potentially causing health issues for themselves or other people who share the space.

Do workers need to be paid for inductions?

Providers must pay workers for any time worked, as there is a direct employment relationship.

Inductions are considered time worked by the employee. As such, providers are legally required to pay their workers their full contracted rate for any formal or informal training that is compulsory to their role.

The LHA monitors compliance with a range of wage-related obligations.

What topics should I cover during inductions?

There are plenty of important health and safety topics for employers to cover during induction:

  1. Provide the employee with access to business policies and procedure guides.
  2. Ensure the employee understands their specific responsibilities to uphold occupational health and safety standards.
  3. Discuss evacuation plans and procedures with the employee.
  4. Introduce the employee to relevant first aid officers and emergency wardens.
  5. Ensure the employee is aware of Employee Assistance Programs (ESP) and any other available support.

The Fair Work Ombudsman has a full checklist available to help with inducting a new worker. Download it here.