Free Pre-Start Meeting Template
Download our free Pre-Start Meeting Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of Document
Purpose of DocumentPre-Start Meeting templates are used to document pre-start meetings in the workplace. The primary goal is to act as a forum for the exchange of safety related information between workers and managers / PCBUs. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
Complete the relevant sections of the form, including the site / location and who the relevant supervisor is. Add an overview of the work being conducted and what health and safety considerations need to be shared with staff.
NOTE: This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Pre-start meetings are generally held before work commences.
Who Should Use
This form can be completed by your workers, Safety Advisor, Project Manager or other competent person in your organisation.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to complete a pre-start meeting. However, it is best practice, as having effective pre-start meetings can help meet general legal duties, including:
- s(19) WHS Act – Primary Duty of Care
- s(47) WHS Regulations – Duty to Consult with Workers
FAQ
What is a pre-start meeting?
A pre-start meeting is conducted before the commencement of construction or work activities, serving as a platform to discuss safety, critical information, and project-specific details.
How do you run a pre-start meeting?
The following steps can assist in running a pre-start meeting:
- Develop an agenda outlining meeting goals, topics, and logistics.
- Clearly define the purpose of the meeting and what needs to be accomplished.
- Allocate specific times for each agenda item to manage time effectively.
- Encourage open communication and two-way discussions among team members.
- Keep the meeting engaging with interactive elements, avoiding monotony.
- Keep the meeting concise, ideally under 10 minutes, to maintain engagement.
- Record important information discussed and any decisions made.
What is WHS Consultation?
WHS consultation is the cooperative interaction between employers, also known as Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs), and their employees aimed at tackling health and safety issues at work. This process encompasses the exchange of information, the examination of possible hazards, and the inclusion of employees in offering their perspectives, opinions, and responses regarding decisions and measures related to safety.
What are some examples of WHS Consultation in the workplace?
Some examples of WHS consultation include:
- Having Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and Health and Safety Committees (HSCs)
- WHS / safety meetings
- Involving workers in the development and review of WHS policies and procedures
- Distributing safety alerts
- WHS noticeboards
Article Sources and Further Reading
- Consultation (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/consultation>
- WHS Consultation Requirements in Australia (Safe Work NSW) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/whs-consultation-requirements/>