Hit the ground safe and productive.
Whether you’re welcoming five riggers or fifty assemblers, the first two days decide how fast your crew settles, how safe they work, and whether they stay. Use this 48-hour onboarding checklist to give every new hire a consistent, professional start.

Why a 48-Hour Plan Matters

• Safety first: New workers are statistically more likely to be injured in their first 30 days.

• Fewer surprises: Clear expectations reduce rework, payroll issues and no-shows.

• Retention: A structured welcome increases belonging and early engagement.

T–24 to T–0 (Before Day 1): Pre-Arrival Setup

• Confirm start time, gate, and supervisor name by text and email.

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  Collect ID docs (scan if allowed) and any required permits/certifications.

• Pre-size PPE (gloves/FR coveralls/boots) and prepare issue kit.

• Assign a buddy (experienced, good communicator).

• Arrange site access (badges, parking, shuttle), housing if applicable.

• Prepare payroll forms and timesheet instructions.

• Print the orientation agenda for Day 1.

Tip: Send a simple “What to bring on your first day” message: ID, steel-toes (if not provided), lunch, water, bank info.

Day 1 Checklist (Welcome & Orientation)

1) Welcome & Verification

• ID check, emergency contacts, next-of-kin

• Photo for badge (if used)

2) Safety Orientation (30–45 min)

• Site hazards walk-through & muster points

• PPE standards, stop-work authority, reporting near-misses

• Permit controls (hot work, confined space, LOTO)

• Toolbox talk schedule (daily/weekly)

3) Policies & Payroll (10–15 min)

• Clock-in/clock-out, overtime rules, pay schedule, who to call for changes

• How to report issues (injury, payroll, accommodation)

4) PPE Issue & Fit Check

• Hard hat, eye protection, gloves, FR where required

• Fit/comfort check and replacement process

5) Buddy & Supervisor Huddles

• Introduce buddy and crew lead

• Review first task, hazards, and expected pace

• Confirm radio channel/phone numbers

6) First Task Micro-Training

• 10–15 minutes on the specific tool/process

• Demonstrate → practice → sign-off

7) Check-ins

• Mid-shift and end-of-shift “How did it go? Any concerns?”

• Log notes for Day 2 follow-up

Day 2 Checklist (Skills, Tools & Flow)

1) Skills Verification (Practical)

• Short hands-on test or observation (e.g., torque procedure, forklift pre-use check)

• Note any extra training required

2) Tools & Equipment

• Issue/return process, storage, breakage reporting

• Pre-use inspection routine

3) Workflows & Paperwork

• Timesheet correction process

• Revisit permit/authorization essentials

• Confirm badge/keys/tools are recorded

4) One-to-One with Supervisor (10 min)

• Performance expectations for Week 1

• Ask: “What do you need from us to do great work?”

5) Admin Confirmations

• Payroll details verified (name, rate, bank)

• Contact numbers saved, group chat (if used) joined

Country Notes (Quick Guidance)

USA: I-9 eligibility verification, state-specific overtime rules, OSHA awareness.
Canada: Provincial OH&S differences (e.g., Alberta vs. Ontario), WHMIS orientation.
India: ESI/EPF where applicable, Shops & Establishments compliance, site-specific induction.
This article is for general guidance only—confirm requirements with your legal/compliance advisors.

30/60/90-Day KPIs (Set on Day 2)

• Safety: zero recordables; near-miss reporting participation

• Quality: rework rate under target

• Attendance: on-time start %; justified call-offs

• Output: task cycle time vs. standard

• Engagement: 10-minute check-ins logged weekly