Every year approximately 100 people are killed during construction work (2 a week). The cost of accidents can be measured in both financial and human terms. The second of these may easily be the greater loss and have the longest and farthest reaching effect. A few minutes spent learning how to avoid accidents represents time well spent. These Tool Box Talks address the most basic points concerning topics, activities and locations. They are designed to be fleshed out into short talks of 10 to 15 minutes duration without requiring specialist knowledge on the part of the speaker. The talks should be concise and punchy, to get the message across. A pattern of weekly talks is suggested. Every employer has a legal obligation to inform, instruct and train operatives about the risks they face in their work. Safety Awareness Talks can play a part in this and will promote the discussion of safety procedures. They should be repeated at intervals. A record must be kept of who has received this training. On the back of each Talk Sheet, there is an attendance form, which should be completed and returned to the person in charge of safety in your company. Proof of training may be required at a later date.
