Induction

Induction is the process of giving a new employee the information they need to work safely, confidently and effectively in their first days on the farm. It introduces the farm environment, its policies and ways of working, and it sets clear expectations from the start. 

What induction covers 

A good induction introduces: 

  • work health and safety requirements and safety equipment 
  • key policies, such as safety and anti-discrimination 
  • operating manuals and procedures 
  • emergency contacts and processes 
  • administrative tasks and systems 
  • how the role fits within the wider farm business 

Use an induction checklist 

Allowing enough time for induction, and encouraging questions throughout, supports a confident start. An induction checklist helps ensure all essential areas are covered and expectations are clear.

Tip

Having the employee sign the checklist — ideally before starting work — provides a clear record that key information has been explained and understood.

Induction is the first week of the wider onboarding process. See the Onboarding page for how the first three months build on it. 

Common questions

What is induction?

Induction is the process of giving a new employee the information they need to work safely, confidently and effectively in their first days on the farm. 

What should an induction cover?

Work health and safety requirements and equipment, key policies such as safety and anti-discrimination, operating manuals and procedures, emergency contacts and processes, administrative tasks and systems, and how the role fits within the wider farm business. 

Why use an induction checklist?

A checklist helps ensure all essential areas are covered and expectations are clear. Having the employee sign it provides a record that key information has been explained and understood. 

When should induction happen?

Induction usually takes place in the first week. Ideally the checklist is completed and signed before the employee starts work.