The complete guide to contractor inductions

Bringing contractors onto your site isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about making sure they know what’s expected, how to stay safe, and how to get the job done without putting themselves—or anyone else—at risk.

That’s where inductions come in. Done well, they’re the foundation of a safe, smooth-running project. Done badly (or not at all), they can lead to confusion, accidents, and costly delays.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about contractor inductions—what they are, why they matter, what to include, and how to deliver them in a way that actually works.

What is a contractor induction?

A contractor induction is the process of making sure anyone coming to work on your site or at your place of work is fully briefed on your health and safety expectations, specific site rules, and emergency procedures before they start.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is clear: employers and those in control of workplaces must provide the right information, training, and supervision to protect people from harm. https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/index.htm

Contractor inductions are a key part of meeting that duty.

Why contractor inductions matter

Inductions are the first step in creating a safe site and a good working relationship.

• Legal compliance – regulations require you to prove contractors are competent and trained. An induction is evidence that you’ve done your part.
• Safety first – contractors often face higher-risk work. Inductions highlight hazards and how to manage them.
• Smoother projects – clear expectations reduce mistakes, downtime, and rework.
• Professionalism – a proper induction sets the tone and shows you run a safe, organised site.

What to include in a contractor induction

Every site and workplace is different, but most inductions cover:

Company and site basics

• Who you are and what you do
• Site access and sign-in procedures
• Security and site rules

Safety policies

• How you manage health and safety
• Who’s responsible for what
• How to report unsafe conditions

Emergencies

• Fire alarms and evacuation routes
• First aid facilities and contacts
• How to report incidents

Hazards and risks

• Site-specific risks (like chemicals, asbestos, noise, traffic)
• Control measures in place
• How RAMS are used

PPE

• What’s mandatory on your site
• How to use and look after it

Job-specific requirements

• Permits to work (e.g. hot works, confined spaces)
• Safe practices (e.g. working at height, manual handling)
• Tool and equipment safety

Behaviour and conduct

• Code of conduct on site
• Environmental rules (waste, recycling, spill response)

How to make induction work:

Here are some reminders:

• Keep it clear—ditch the jargon.
• Use video, images, or interactive quizzes—it’s more engaging than a 50-slide PowerPoint.
• Tailor content to the role and workplace—plumbers and roofers don’t face the same risks.
• Test knowledge with short quizzes to make sure the key points stick.
• Record completions—you’ll need proof for compliance and audits.
• Review regularly—update your induction whenever rules or risks change.

Pitfalls to avoid

• Giving everyone the same generic induction
• Relying on messy paper records
• Letting content go out of date

The future of contractor inductions

Inductions are moving with the times. Digital platforms now make it easier to:

• Deliver inductions online, anytime, anywhere
• Track completion automatically
• Use mobile-friendly formats for contractors on the go
• Spot gaps in compliance with simple reporting

The result? Safer sites, less admin, and contractors who arrive ready to work.

Final thoughts

Contractor inductions are a legal requirement, but more than that—they’re the foundation of a safe, efficient, and professional site.

By keeping inductions clear, relevant, and accessible, you protect your contractors, your team, and your business. And by moving the bulk of the process online, you make life easier for everyone involved.

For more information on how Induction Pro by GetOnSite can help you digitalise your induction process contact sales@getonsitefast.com