Listen to Your Gut

Work can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to the job or don’t have a lot of experience in the industry. You want to make a good first impression by showing your co-workers and your boss that you know what you’re doing.

That’s why, while talking about safety at work, asking for training, or bringing up concerns can be hard, it’s important. Employers are responsible for providing adequate training before you start work. Proper training and orientation helps to ensure that everyone stays safe on the job.

If you get a gut feeling that something isn’t safe, or you don’t know how to do your job safely, listen to your instincts and talk to your manager about it. It could save your life or the life of your co-worker.

What to say, what to do

Tips for improving health and safety on the job

Talk about safety
Talk about safety

Speaking up shows that you respect your work, so always ask if you’re not clear about how to do something safely.

What should I ask at my interview?

How can I speak to my manager about health and safety?

Know who to talk to
Know who to talk to

Start with your supervisor, but you can also talk to a mentor, the owner, or a safety committee rep.

What do I do if I have a health and safety concern?

Learn about your industry
Learn about your industry

Know the regulations and your employer’s health and safety responsibilities.

What should I expect from my employer?

Ask for training
Ask for training

Ask your supervisor or boss for training if you didn’t get it. If you don’t understand something, ask for retraining.

What can I expect during my orientation?

Know your rights
Know your rights

Everyone has the right to a safe and healthy workplace. Talk to your boss if something doesn’t feel safe.

What are my rights and responsibilities?

Am I allowed to refuse unsafe work?

Everyone has a role to play
Everyone has a role to play

Understand your health and safety role, and the role of your employer and supervisor.

What is my health and safety role?

What is my employer’s role?

What is my supervisor’s role?

Know the hazards
Know the hazards

Hazards aren’t always easy to recognize. Your employer can help you identify the ones in your job and show you how to stay safe.

What are some health and safety hazards I could face at work?

Be aware of common injuries
Be aware of common injuries

Some injuries are more common among young workers. You can help avoid them with proper training, supervision, and by speaking up for yourself when something doesn’t feel right.

What are the common injuries for young workers, and how do I avoid them?

#ListenToYourGut