Toolbox Talks

Guidelines for Toolbox Talks:

Conduct toolbox talks on a daily or weekly basis to reinforce your focus on safety.

Focus on high-risk scenarios and to inform workers about changes to the jobsite and working conditions that may have occurred since their last shift. Be sure to discuss cover any accidents or injuries that have occurred and how they could have been prevented.

Toolbox talks can be broken out into smaller groups to focus on individual trades or work activities for certain individuals. Don’t hold a toolbox talk on electrical safety if sitework and excavation is the only thing being done that day.

Inclement weather like heavy wind, snow, ice and rain can create unsafe conditions. Use toolbox talks to remind workers to be extra cautious when additional hazards from the weather are present or expected.

Use site inspections as teaching moments when unsafe work actions or conditions are observed. If you notice workers walking around without hard hats on one day, focus your next toolbox talk on the proper selection and use of PPE.

Be sure to focus on the positive, too. Highlight safe working practices observed to provide positive reinforcement and applaud workers who are adhering to safety rules and regulations.

Toolbox talks are a great time to have employees inspect the equipment, tools and PPE they will be working with that day to ensure they are in proper working condition.

·        Keep it short. Toolbox talks should be around 5 – 10 minutes.

·        Focus on one topic relevant to the work being done that day.

·        Get workers involved by asking questions or having them demonstrate safe work practices.

·        Be sure to cover changes to the site or working conditions.

·        Have employees inspect tools, equipment and PPE.

Allow for questions and answers at the end of the toolbox talk