Paperwork is essential for any desk or office based business, and when it comes to combining onsite induction processes with paperwork, you can risk errors. No matter the size of your site, how well trained your staff are, paper-based induction processes are risky. Security and safety, as well as return of investment, are paramount, so we look at why automated inductions are the way forward for construction sites.
CDM2015 requirements on inductions
Under the CDM2015 regulations staff and visitors must be given a suitable induction to the project or site. The induction needs to be site-specific, relevant to the size and scope of the work, and inform the visitor/worker of the level of risk involved going onsite.
Before CDM2015, you could implement your own paper based system and use your own methods to track results. However now, you have to follow specific procedures, which is time consuming. In the past you would need to do a lot of this in person, where as automation would allow you to give a standard presentation and book a slot to fit in with a Site Manager’s busy schedule.
How does a good induction system look?
A good induction system has several elements such as:
● Takes into account inductees’ experience and expertise
● Clear on site structure and job roles
● Site-specific health and safety risks
● Inform of evacuation procedures and first aid
● Cover the inductees personal responsibility for health and safety
Having the ability to adapt the content to each individual’s needs and expertise is vital for saving time. The best way to achieve this is to implement software which holds data in a central location, and updates across all platforms. For multi-site projects, this can save hours of time for managers, which can be invested back into the project.
This induction process can be supported with physical documentation, or be tested using an online quiz to ensure compliance and retention of knowledge.
Automation at its best
The induction process is necessary, and handing it over to an online system feels like a risky move. In reality, using cloud-based programmes means that inductions can be carried out quickly, effectively, and removes the need for a manager to be present at all times during the process.
Automated inductions process allows visitors and contractors to access documentation they need for their job. This saves time as well as paper and ink, so is a huge positive for the company and the environment.
Reporting is another area of concern for managers. Running spreadsheets and creating reports from possibly outdated information is risky. Automation saves effort on all parts to generate up to date, accurate reports at the push of a button. Real time reporting means health and safety standards can be adhered to, and the knowledge of visitors and staff are accounted for.
