The flexibility offered by seasonal workers makes them a great option to keep up with holiday demands. Though the temptation might be to keep outgoings on these new starters to an absolute minimum, Andy Cartwright, Technical Manager for leading fork lift truck training provider, Mentor Training, explains how, by providing the right training, you can see practical and financial benefits that are vital at your business’ busiest time of year. The facts Research suggests that an influx of new staff means a significant increase to the risk of injury on site. During the first month of employment, any worker – permanent or temporary – is four times more likely to be involved in an accident and, with each percentage-point increase in new staff, a company’s risk of major workplace injuries can increase up to 2.5 per cent. But Mentor maintain that with the right training, agency workers can safely and quickly integrate into the workforce, achieving (and even exceeding) the positive impact they were hired to have. As Andy explains, “Without the proper training, a short term solution to the Christmas rush can come at a very high cost. To make sure you get the most out of your new employees, you’ll need to make sure they’ve got the relevant skills and knowledge to become a safe and effective part of the team.” Stay safe (and legal) With a section devoted specifically to contractors and agency workers, the HSE’s definitive forklift operations safety guidance – L117 Approved Code of Practice for Rider-Operated Lift Trucks – highlights the need for special risk management of this group, including proper training and additional supervision. Andy reminds employers: “You are no less responsible for the health and safety of an agency worker on their first day, than you are for someone who has […]