It's important to remember that you have responsibilities as well as rights . There are responsibilities to yourself, to your employer and to your workmates.
It's your responsibility to pay close attention to all the issues raised during an induction or training course.
Appropriate clothing
What is appropriate clothing for your workplace? This will be determined by a number of factors, including safety, contact with the public and your own comfort.
If a uniform or safety equipment is required, this may be provided by the employer; it may be your responsibility to keep the uniform and equipment clean and tidy.
Arriving ready to work
You should arrive at work ready and able to perform your duties. This means you should be sufficiently rested to concentrate on the job, to make decisions and to complete the tasks assigned to you.
You should not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Various industries (e.g. mining and construction) have 'zero tolerance' for drugs and alcohol and may impose random tests at the workplace.
Attitude
It's important that you bring a positive attitude to work. Not only will this help you enjoy work more, but it will also help your interaction with other employees and your employer.
Harassment, discrimination and bullying
You have the right to be safe from harassment, discrimination and bullying in the workplace, and you also have a responsibility to help prevent this from taking place. You know you wouldn't enjoy being the target or victim of this type of behaviour yourself.
Remember that if you or one of your workmates is being subjected to harassment, discrimination or bullying, it's against the law. You have a responsibility to report this behaviour to your employer or to the appropriate person in the organisation. For more about harassment, discrimination and bullying click here.
Honesty
Stealing money or goods from your workplace is against the law. Dishonesty will reflect badly on yourself and your family.
Dishonesty among employees could affect the business, and could lead to the loss of your job or the jobs of your workmates. Stealing could lead to criminal charges and could prevent you from getting a positive employment reference - making it difficult to get new jobs in future.
Induction Sessions
Induction sessions are designed to explain the procedures and practices followed in your workplace. These courses are critical for safety in the workplace and may be mandatory under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
It's your responsibility to take these courses seriously. Your ability to understand and act upon the information you're given could be a matter of life or death.
Punctuality
Your employer is required by law to pay you for the hours you're at work. It's your responsibility to be on time to start work at the appointed time for your shift and to complete the whole shift. You should also return to your work station on time after scheduled breaks.
If you're delayed, it's your responsibility to let your employer know. Your being late to work may affect the work of others in the organisation.
Safety
Safety in the workplace is the responsibility of all those who work there. Many worksites will have an induction course in which workplace procedures are explained. It's your responsibility to understand and follow these procedures.
A momentary lapse of safety awareness can result in an accident leading to serious injury or even death. For more on safety click here for more information.
Social skills
At work you'll be expected to interact with a wide range of people. These may include customers, both in person and on the phone, your employer and your workmates.
Remember to be polite and to treat other people the way you'd like to be treated. Take your time to observe what's expected in the workplace, and adjust your behaviour accordingly.
Tools
Tools are designed to make your task at work easier to perform. They may be dangerous if not handled correctly. Poorly maintained tools and equipment may also present a safety issue.
It's your responsibility to keep the tools you use in working order and to store them correctly. If you have questions about how to properly handle and maintain a tool, ask your supervisor. Guessing can be dangerous.
It's the employer's responsibility to ensure that tools are safe and working properly. It is your responsibility to remain alert to safety issues, follow instructions and to bring to the employer's attention any problems with tools or equipment. You also need to store them correctly. If you have questions about how to properly handle and maintain a tool, ask their supervisor. Guessing can be dangerous.