Toolbox talk attendance record
Starter topics
Not sure what to talk about?
Choose a topic as a starting point, then adapt the discussion to the work, location and hazards your team is actually facing. These prompts support a short safety conversation and do not replace required training or site-specific instructions.
Slips, trips and housekeepingViewHideUseful for: All workplaces
Keep work areas, walkways and access routes clean, clear and safe.
- Remove debris and waste as work progresses
- Keep cords, tools and loose items out of travel paths
- Store materials in a stable and orderly way
Hazard and near-miss reportingViewHideUseful for: All workplaces
Speak up early so unsafe conditions can be corrected before someone is hurt.
- Report hazards and near misses promptly
- Describe what you saw without guessing at causes
- Stop work and notify a supervisor when a condition is immediately unsafe
Emergency procedures and evacuationViewHideUseful for: All workplaces
Make sure everyone knows how to respond if an emergency occurs.
- Know exits, muster points and emergency contacts
- Keep exits and emergency equipment accessible
- Confirm where first aid supplies are located
Manual handling and safe liftingViewHideUseful for: Construction, retail, warehouse, nonprofit
Reduce strains and handling injuries when moving materials, products or equipment.
- Plan the lift before moving the load
- Use carts, equipment or team lifting when needed
- Avoid twisting, overreaching and awkward carrying positions
PPE awareness and proper useViewHideUseful for: Construction, maintenance, warehouse
Use task-appropriate PPE that is available, in good condition and properly fitted.
- Confirm the PPE required for today’s task
- Inspect PPE before use
- Stop and ask if required protection is missing or unclear
Tool and equipment safetyViewHideUseful for: Construction, maintenance, warehouse
Prevent injuries through proper tool selection, inspection and use.
- Inspect tools and equipment before use
- Keep guards and safety features in place
- Remove damaged or defective equipment from service
Ladder and fall awarenessViewHideUseful for: Construction, maintenance, warehouse
Control fall exposure before climbing or working at height.
- Set ladders on stable footing and inspect them before use
- Maintain three-point contact when climbing
- Stop if edges, openings or elevated work are not properly controlled
Heat stress and hydrationViewHideUseful for: Outdoor and physically demanding work
Prevent heat-related illness through hydration, pacing and early reporting.
- Drink water regularly and use breaks appropriately
- Watch for dizziness, headache, nausea or unusual fatigue
- Speak up early if heat conditions are affecting safe work
Electrical safety and damaged cordsViewHideUseful for: Construction, maintenance, retail, office
Identify damaged electrical equipment before it creates shock, fire or trip hazards.
- Check cords, plugs, power bars and equipment before use
- Keep electrical equipment protected from damage and wet conditions
- Stop using anything that is frayed, cracked, loose or overheating
Storage, loading areas and pedestrian safetyViewHideUseful for: Retail, warehouse, construction
Keep stored materials stable and separate people from moving equipment and loading activity.
- Stack and store materials so they cannot fall or shift
- Keep aisles, exits and pedestrian routes clear
- Use extra care around docks, vehicles, carts and powered equipment
Ergonomics and workstation setupViewHideUseful for: Office, retail, administrative work
Reduce discomfort and strain by arranging work to fit the person and task.
- Adjust seating, screens and work surfaces where possible
- Avoid prolonged awkward postures
- Change position and take short movement breaks during repetitive work
Working alone, fatigue and situational awarenessViewHideUseful for: All workplaces
Recognize when isolation, fatigue or distraction is making routine work less safe.
- Follow check-in procedures when working alone
- Speak up when fatigue is affecting safe performance
- Stay aware of changing conditions, people and equipment around you