Interactive Checklist

Your First Day Survival Kit

Everything you need to know, bring, and do before your first day on a job site. Don't show up unprepared.

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Before Day 1
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Get steel-toe boots (break them in beforehand)

Hard hat (ANSI Type I or II)

Safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1 rated)

Work gloves (leather or impact-resistant)

Tape measure (25 ft minimum)

Utility knife with retractable blade

Pack lunch, snacks & water bottle

Set alarm for early start (arrive 15 min early)

Paperwork & Docs
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Government-issued photo ID

SSN card or SIN documentation

Direct deposit / banking info

Emergency contact details

Copies of certifications & licenses

Drug test results (if applicable)

Safety Essentials
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Complete OSHA 10-Hour (if required)

Learn site-specific PPE requirements

Know emergency exits & muster points

Understand lockout/tagout (LOTO) basics

Learn common hand signals

Review the site safety plan

First Week Tips
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Arrive 15 minutes early every day

Ask questions — no one respects a guesser

Watch experienced workers closely

Learn every crew member's name

Don't touch unfamiliar equipment

Take notes on procedures & terminology

Career Building
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Join the union if applicable

Start apprenticeship paperwork

Set 30 / 60 / 90 day goals

Find a mentor on site

Track hours for certification

Trade-Specific Tips

Extra prep based on your chosen trade.

Electricians

Bring a voltage tester (non-contact)
Learn wire color codes before day 1
Always verify power is off — trust but verify
Get comfortable reading single-line diagrams

Plumbers

Invest in a good pipe wrench set
Learn the difference between ABS, PVC, and copper
Bring a headlamp for tight spaces
Practice soldering/sweating joints at home

Welders

Get an auto-darkening welding helmet
Bring welding gloves and a leather apron
Practice different rod types (6010, 7018)
Know your base metals before striking an arc

HVAC Technicians

Carry a refrigerant manifold gauge set
Learn to read HVAC schematics
EPA 608 certification is essential
Invest in a quality multimeter

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