# S26. Your first day checklist - everything you need sorted before you start
Composite checklist from all Starting Out guides. Use this as a tick‑off checklist before day one on site.
1. PAPERWORK AND RIGHT TO WORK
- I have photo ID (driving licence or passport).
- I have proof of right to work in the UK (if needed).
- I've sent any forms the labour agency or employer asked for (starter form, bank details, NI number).
- I know what time and where to report on day one, and who I'm asking for.
2. CARDS, TICKETS AND TRAINING
- I have the right CSCS card (or other accepted card) for the job I'm doing, and it's in date.
- If needed, I've passed the CITB HS&E test and any induction / HSA course they asked for.
- I've told the agency/employer about any other tickets I hold (CPCS/NPORS/IPAF, etc.).
- I've kept screenshots/prints of my cards and certificates in case reception ask for them.
3. PPE AND WORKWEAR
- I know who is supplying PPE (me or the employer) and what's mandatory on this site (hard hat, hi‑vis, boots at minimum).
-
I've got:
- Safety boots with steel or composite toe and midsole.
- Hard hat in good condition and in date.
- Hi‑vis vest/jacket that's clean and visible.
- Work gloves suitable for the tasks I'll be doing.
- Any task‑specific PPE they've mentioned (goggles, hearing protection, dust mask/respirator, knee pads, etc.).
- I've got work clothes that are tough, comfortable and weather‑appropriate (no shorts or fashion trainers unless the site has said it's allowed).
4. TOOLS AND KIT (IF REQUIRED)
- I know whether it's labour‑only (no tools) or they expect me to bring basic hand tools.
-
If I'm bringing tools, I've:
- Checked they're in safe working order (no damaged leads, guards in place, etc.).
- Charged batteries and packed spare blades/bits as needed.
- Marked them with my name or a unique mark.
- I've got a small notebook and pen to take names, instructions, measurements and gate codes.
5. GETTING THERE AND GETTING ON SITE
- I know the exact site address, gate/entrance, and any parking or public transport details.
- I've allowed extra time on day one for induction, signing in and getting a pass.
- I know what ID or card I'll need at the gate (CSCS, induction letter, etc.).
- I know the site rules they've already told me: start/finish times, breaks, smoking/vaping rules, phone policy.
6. HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE
- I understand the basics of site safety: obey signage, stay in walkways, never bypass barriers, report hazards.
- I'm ready to attend the site induction and any toolbox talk, and I'll actually listen and ask if I don't understand something.
- I know I must tell the supervisor if I'm asked to use a tool/plant I'm not trained or ticketed for.
- I know I have the right to stop and speak up if something feels unsafe.
7. MONEY, BREAKS AND BASICS
- My bank details and NI number are with the right person (agency/payroll/employer) before I start.
- I know my pay rate, how often I'll be paid, and whether I'm PAYE or CIS/umbrella.
-
I've packed:
- Lunch and snacks (assuming there may be no canteen or shops nearby).
- A large bottle of water and maybe a flask for hot drinks.
- I've got a charged phone, but I know it must stay away during work except for breaks/emergencies.
8. MINDSET AND BEHAVIOUR
- I'm planning to be 10–15 minutes early, not dead on the dot.
- I'm ready to listen more than I talk, follow instructions, and write things down.
- I know the chain of command: who I report to (supervisor/foreman/chargehand) and who to talk to if I'm unsure.
- I'm prepared to start with basic graft (sweeping, fetching, tidying) and see it as a way to prove I'm reliable.
If you can tick most of this list before day one, you'll arrive looking switched on rather than lost.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
- Go through this checklist the night before your first day and tick off everything you can.
- Pack your bag, charge your phone and lay out your PPE so the morning is not a scramble.
- Save the site address, gate code and your supervisor's number in your phone.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early and ask for the induction before you start any work.
- After your first week, re-read S1 and S6 to check the site is meeting its duties to you.
SOURCES
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/51
- National Minimum Wage Act 1998. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1998/39
Know someone who needs this?
Need help pricing your work? Read Section 14: Pricing Your Work - day rates, job prices and how to stop underselling yourself.
Finished your apprenticeship? Read our guide: After Your Apprenticeship - the stuff nobody teaches you in college.
Was this guide useful?
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Spotted something wrong or out of date? Email us at hello@kilnguides.co.uk.
In crisis? Samaritans 116 123 ·