Toolbox talks are brief safety meetings that help prevent accidents, illnesses, and injuries on the job site by improving the safety culture. They are required for the construction and tunneling industries and reinforce training in safe work practices. [6] [6] [6]

Topics for toolbox talks should cover work practices, machinery, tools, equipment, materials, and attitudes that may cause or contribute to work-related incidents. These talks should address existing job site problems and incorporate workers' real-life experiences. [6] [6]

Recommended toolbox talk topics and resources include:

• Electrical safety, including power tools, wiring, and extension cords
• Equipment safety, including forklifts and falling objects
• Hand tool safety, such as hammer and nail gun safety
• Welding safety, including arc welding and fire safety
• Excavation safety, including trench safety
• Fire prevention and protection
• Hazard communication, including silica and lead exposure
• General safety practices, such as housekeeping

Specific safety measures to cover in toolbox talks:

• Always de-energize, lock out, and tag all electrical systems before working on them and verify they are de-energized with an AC voltage detector
• Inspect equipment before use and use proper lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance
• Use extreme caution on ramps when operating forklifts and never operate without training and certification
• Wear eye protection and ensure the hammer's head is not loose or damaged when using hammers
• Use nail guns with sequential triggers and always wear safety glasses
• Remove fire hazards from welding areas and have the correct fire extinguisher nearby
• Never enter an unprotected trench and ensure rocks and dirt are at least 2 feet away from the trench top
• Use vacuums or water to reduce dust when working with silica and avoid dry sweeping
• Avoid blasting, sanding, or cutting surfaces that may contain lead without testing, and wash hands and face before eating or drinking

[1] [2] [2] [4] [4] [8] [8] [9] [9] [5] [5] [7] [10] [11] [12] [12] To run an effective meeting:

• Hold meetings at the job site, preferably where everyone can sit and relax.
• Hold meetings at the start of a shift or after a break.
• Research the topic using manuals or safety data sheets.
• Choose topics related to employees' tasks and be prepared to explain why the topic is important.
• Keep the topic specific and practical by demonstrating safe work practices.
• Encourage discussion and input by asking questions.
• Keep the meeting short, usually 10 to 15 minutes.
• Consider whether the topic fit the job site and if the crew participated.
• Document the meeting topic, date, attendees, and any actions taken.

[6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [3] [3] [3] Resources for additional information include Title 8 California Code of Regulations (T8CCR), California FACE Program, Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health (eLCOSH), Cal/OSHA Publications, and Cal/OSHA Consultation Branch. [3] [3] [3] [3] [3]