There are a lot of expectations and mysteries when starting a new job. You want it to go well but are unsure of what they require of you. Explore these tips for your first day on a construction site to help prepare you for your new career.
What To Bring
Depending on the scale on the site and what your specialty is, what you need to bring can vary. You will need a set of steel-toe boots, a shirt, and a pair of thick work pants for every site. You’ll also want to bring a lunch that doesn’t need a microwave because you might not have a site trailer set up yet. Most sites provide construction hats and tools, but you should double-check with your company a few days before your first day. That way, you don’t show up empty-handed if you do need to bring your own equipment.
On your first day, you’ll have to show ID to get onto the site as well. Not to mention, if you are setting up a direct deposit, you may need a void check.
Arrive Early
Whether you’re starting as an apprentice or laborer, those first days and weeks are still a trial period, and you must make an excellent first impression if you hope to hang around for a while. It’s best if you always show up on-site at least 15 minutes before your shift. To keep working on sites, your coworkers need to know that you are reliable and dedicated to the profession, and nothing sends the opposite signal more than constantly showing up late.
Also, for your first day, you’ll want to incorporate some extra time in your commute in case you get lost or have problems getting through the gate.
Expect an on-Site Orientation
The first day on any new site for your entire career will require an orientation from the foreman or on-site supervisor. You probably won’t get a look at the construction blueprints, but the orientation leader will take you around the site to help you understand the project’s scope. However, the primary purpose of orientation is to make sure everyone has a complete understanding of the safety and emergency procedures of the site. They will also warn you of any safety hazards.
Stay Vigilant
Take the knowledge you learned from orientation and keep it in your back pocket. A construction site is a dangerous place where you can get seriously harmed or worse, so don’t let your guard down on location. It would help to avoid heavy machinery unless you’re the operator, and you should stay wary of ledges, as most won’t have guard rails. One of the biggest hazards to job site safety is an unaware and reckless operative.
If you keep these tips for your first day on a construction site in mind, you can impress everyone on your first day.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
