A comprehensive Induction Program and Staff Manual developed by Manningham City Council’s Aged and Disability Services is successfully guiding new staff through the hazards of their many and varied workplaces. This is making the task of induction much easier at Manningham and elsewhere. Service Coordinator, Keri Kennealy, believes the Manual will raise the standard of induction and training throughout the industry.
“The task of home care is very difficult,” she said. “Work in this field encompasses many ‘grey’ areas. The challenge is to provide clear guidelines, a safe working environment and all the support possible so staff can do their job well.”
The Manual consists of a looseleaf binder with a clear index for quick and easy reference to the range of information new staff require. Features include the following.
- A comprehensive induction an staff manual system.
- A health and safety checklist.
- A compact training register.
The first Council in Australasia to achieve SafetyMAP and ISO9001 Quality Assurance Certification, Manningham’s Manual is an effective management tool for reducing WorkCover costs. The package is based on the SafetyMAP Accreditation system. Designed to be generic, it is readily adaptable to other workplaces and situations.
“It provides a comprehensive guide to the workplace,” Keri said. “Furthermore, it is readily adaptable to other workplaces and situations.
“Some Councils are looking at it in relation to parks and garden staff.”
Staff are presented with their own copies of the Manual during the mandatory four day induction program Manningham provides all new staff. Once in the workplace, they can readily refer to it before needing to direct queries to the central office.
“This saves time and money and empowers the workforce,” Keri said. “After the thorough four day induction program, and with their Manual in hand, staff can approach their work with confidence and that confidence is transferred to the client.” From a management point of view, Keri said it makes the job of training more streamlined.
“The Manual is the only document I require to carry out induction and training sessions which makes the task much easier,” she said. “For new staff, rather than being hit with lots of different handouts, brochures and leaflets everything they need is there in the one handy, clear Manual.”
For further information contact Keri Kennealy, telephone (03) 9841 5044.
