ToolBox Talks
Quick safety discussions to help keep our crew sharp and safe every day.
Toolbox Talks are short, focused safety discussions designed to reinforce safe work practices. Review them regularly, discuss as a crew, and apply what you learn on the job. Consistent use of Toolbox Talks helps prevent incidents and builds a strong safety culture at MtS.
Jump to a topic:
Daily Topics
- Slips, Trips & Falls
- Jobsite Housekeeping
Weekly Topic
- Proper Lifting Techniques
- PPE – It Only Works If You Wear It
- Near Miss Reporting
- Struck-By Hazards
- Hand & Power Tool Safety
- Electrical Safety Basics
- Fall Protection Awareness
As Needed
- Ladder Safety Quick Guide
- Excavation & Trenching Safety
- Confined Space Entry
Seasonal
- Heat Illness Prevention
- Cold Stress Prevention
Tool Box Talks Videos
SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS
KEY MESSAGE: Most slips, trips, and falls are preventable with good housekeeping & awareness.
MAIN POINTS.
- Keep walkways, stairs, and work areas clear of debris, cords, and materials.
- Clean up spills immediately — don’t wait for someone else to do it.
- Watch for uneven ground, holes, poor lighting, and weather hazards.
- Wear proper footwear with good traction for the conditions.
- Report hazards right away — don’t assume someone else will.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - What trip or slip hazards have you noticed on this jobsite recently?
- What can our crew do better to keep walking surfaces clear and safe?
TAKEAWAY / ACTION ITEM
If you see something that could cause someone to slip, trip, or fall — fix it or report it immediately.
PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES
KEY MESSAGE: Lift smart — protect your back for the long haul.
MAIN POINTS
- Plan the lift — know where you’re going and clear the path first.
- Bend at the knees, not at the waist. Keep your back straight.
- Keep the load close to your body and lift with your legs.
- Avoid twisting while carrying a load — turn with your feet instead.
- Get help for heavy or awkward items — don’t be a hero.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - What are some common lifting mistakes you see on the jobsite?
- How can we make it easier as a crew to lift heavy items safely?
TAKEAWAY / ACTION ITEM
If it’s too heavy or awkward to lift alone — ask for help or use equipment
PPE – IT ONLY WORKS IF YOU WEAR IT
KEY MESSAGE: Personal Protective Equipment only protects you if you actually use it.
MAIN POINTS
- Inspect your PPE before each use — damaged gear doesn’t protect you.
- Wear the right PPE for the task (hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, etc.).
- Make sure PPE fits properly — loose or tight gear can be dangerous.
- Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately — don’t wait.
- Lead by example — if you wear it, others are more likely to as well.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - Is there any PPE you sometimes skip? Why?
- What can we do as a crew to make sure everyone is properly protected?
TAKEAWAY / ACTION ITEM
No task is so important that you can’t take the time to put on the right PPE
NEAR MISS REPORTING
KEY MESSAGE: A near miss is a warning — report it before it becomes an injury.
MAIN POINTS
- A near miss is any event that could have caused injury or damage but didn’t.
- Reporting near misses helps us find and fix problems before someone gets hurt.
- Never ignore or hide a near miss — it could happen again with worse results.
- Report near misses to your foreman or safety manager right away.
- Good reporting leads to better safety for everyone on the crew.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - Have you seen or experienced a near miss recently that wasn’t reported?
- What stops people from reporting near misses on our jobsites?
TAKEAWAY / ACTION ITEM
If you see something that almost went wrong — report it. It could save a life.
STRUCK-BY HAZARDS
KEY MESSAGE: Stay alert — being hit by objects or vehicles is one of the biggest risks on site.
MAIN POINTS
- Always be aware of equipment and vehicle movements around you.
- Make eye contact with operators before walking near equipment.
- Never walk behind or beside operating equipment without signaling.
- Secure tools, materials, and loads so nothing can fall or fly off.
- Wear high-visibility clothing so operators and drivers can see you.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - What struck-by hazards have you noticed on this project?
- How can we better communicate with equipment operators on site?
TAKEAWAY / ACTION ITEM
If you can’t see the operator’s eyes, assume they can’t see you. Stay clear.