Most workplaces within NSW Health will offer a formal orientation program to new starters. This program is usually run at a specific time and day. Your attendance is important to give you an overview of your new workplace, introduce you to different units and key staff, and gain a better understanding of some of the workplace policies and procedures all team members are expected to be aware of and follow.
Less formally, on your first day you will be shown around your new workplace and introduced to your new team.
General orientation
Your orientation will vary according to the facility or organisation you will be working in and the role you have been recruited to. Generally a basic orientation will include:
Meeting with your manager, and being introduced to your team and other key contacts that work in your area
Being shown around the building you will be working in and the location of amenities such as the toilets, kitchen areas, lunch/common rooms
Receiving your building access card and being made aware of security procedures & building access times
Being shown how to log into your computer, access emails & relevant databases and NSW Health sites
Being shown where the stationary is kept and the location of the scanner, printer & fax
Being shown the fire exits and amenities and given an overview of the emergency evacuation procedures and your Workplace Health & Safety responsibilities
Completing any outstanding employee documentation such as signing your NSW Health Code of Conduct
For clinical positions, you will spend time doing clinical work
Being made aware of policies and procedures that govern the workplace such as the requirement for all staff to undertake the Respecting the Difference - An Aboriginal Cultural Training Framework for NSW Health eLearning module
You will also be made aware of the Local Flexible Working Hours agreement and the different types of leave available
For office based work you may find that your first couple of days at work are spent reading workplace policies and any relevant state or unit/branch health plans to familiarise yourself with the work your unit does and the work priorities.
Also take this opportunity to meet other staff, Aboriginal staff and familiarise yourself with wider networks your job interacts with.
Important - ask questions!
- If you have any questions about your new position in relation to your responsibilities, reporting lines or the workplace - just ask! Your new team is there is assist you to settle into your new role and support the work that you do.