A proper orientation does more than introduce company policies, it builds awareness, sets expectations, and teaches employees how to stay safe while performing their duties.

In this article, we’ll explore what every new employee must learn during safety orientation, why it matters, and how it benefits both workers and organizations.

What Is a Safety Orientation?

A safety orientation is an organized introduction to a company’s health and safety policies, rules, and procedures. It familiarizes new hires with workplace hazards, emergency procedures, and safe work practices.

The goal is simple:

To ensure that every employee starts their job with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and others.

Safety orientation is not an optional, it’s the foundation of a company’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) program and a key requirement under DOLE Department Order No. 198-18 in the Philippines.

Why Safety Orientation Matters

Every year, thousands of workplace injuries occur during the first few months of employment. These incidents often stem from inexperience, lack of training, or unfamiliarity with hazards.

A strong safety orientation:

• Prevents accidents and injuries.

• Builds safety awareness and accountability.

• Improves productivity and morale.

• Demonstrates the company’s commitment to employee welfare.

• Helps comply with legal safety requirements.
  
  

When employees understand safety from day one, they become confident, cautious, and responsible members of the workforce.

What New Employees Must Learn During Safety Orientation

A complete safety orientation covers several key areas. Let’s explore the most important topics that every new worker should know.

1. Company Safety Policy and Goals

New employees should understand the company’s overall commitment to safety, why it matters and how it aligns with the organization’s values.

• Review the company’s safety vision and objectives.

• Introduce the Safety Officer and Safety Committee.

• Explain everyone’s role in maintaining a safe workplace.

This helps employees realize that safety isn’t just management’s job—it’s a shared responsibility.

2. Understanding Workplace Hazards

Every workplace has potential hazards, some are obvious, while others are hidden. 

During the safety orientation, explain the types of hazards present in your facility: 

• Physical (noise, heat, machinery)

• Chemical (cleaning agents, fumes)

• Biological (bacteria, viruses)

• Ergonomic (poor posture, repetitive movements)

• Psychosocial (stress, fatigue, harassment)

Encourage employees to recognize these risks early and report them immediately.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employees must know what PPE is required for their job and how to use it properly.

• Demonstrate correct PPE use (helmets, gloves, goggles, safety shoes, etc.).

• Emphasize care, cleaning, and replacement schedules.

• Remind them that PPE is their last line of defense.

Proper PPE training protects workers from injuries and promotes accountability.

4. Emergency Procedures and Evacuation Plans

Emergencies can happen anytime such as fire, earthquake, chemical spill, or medical crisis.

• Show employees where to find exits, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits.

• Explain the company’s evacuation routes and assembly points.

• Introduce designated emergency marshals or first-aiders.

When employees know what to do, panic is minimized and safety is maximized.

5. Accident Reporting and Investigation

New workers must know how to report accidents, near-misses, or unsafe conditions without fear of punishment.

• Provide clear reporting steps and contact persons.

• Explain how investigations help prevent future incidents.

• Reinforce that early reporting saves lives.

A transparent reporting system encourages openness and quick action.

6. Safe Work Practices

Orientation should include job-specific safety practices that relate to daily operations.

• Safe lifting techniques and proper body mechanics.

• Lockout/tagout procedures for machines.

• Chemical handling, waste disposal, or confined space entry.

• Housekeeping and sanitation practices.

Tailor the discussion to the type of work employees will perform.

7. Rights and Responsibilities

Employees must know their rights under the law including the right to:

• A safe and healthy workplace.

• Refuse unsafe work conditions.

• Receive proper safety training.

They must also understand their responsibilities, such as:

• Following safety rules.

• Using PPE correctly.

• Reporting hazards promptly.

Awareness of these rights and duties empowers workers to take safety seriously.

8. Health and Wellness Programs

Safety extends beyond physical protection, it also involves health and well-being.

• Discuss medical programs, mental health support, and stress management initiatives

• Encourage regular exercise and healthy habits.

• Remind workers about proper hydration and rest.

Healthy employees are more focused, alert, and productive.

9. Company Rules and Disciplinary Actions

Employees should understand that safety violations have consequences.

• Explain company policies on smoking, horseplay, or intoxication.

• Clarify penalties for non-compliance.

• Reinforce that rules exist to protect everyone.

A consistent approach to enforcement builds respect for safety policies.

10. Continuous Safety Improvement

Safety is not a one-time orientation, it’s a continuous process.

• Encourage participation in ongoing safety training programs.

• Conduct regular toolbox meetings and refresher courses.

• Ask employees for feedback on how to improve workplace safety.

A culture of continuous improvement ensures safety becomes a daily habit.

The Role of Supervisors and Co-Workers

Supervisors and senior employees play a vital role in helping new hires adapt to safety standards.

• Provide guidance during the first few weeks.

• Demonstrate safe behavior at all times.

• Be patient and supportive when answering questions.

When experienced workers model safety, new employees follow their lead.

Final Thoughts

A well-designed safety orientation is more than a compliance requirement, it’s a life-saving investment. It shapes how new employees view safety, their responsibilities, and the culture of the company.

When workers start their journey with strong safety knowledge and awareness, they make better decisions, reduce risks, and help create a workplace where everyone goes home safely every day.

Because safety doesn’t start with experience, it starts with education.