Farrier Onboarding Checklist

Farrier Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Farrier starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Agriculture onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Farrier, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Farrier onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Farrier Onboarding Checklist

1. Equipment familiarization: The new farrier should be introduced to all the necessary tools and equipment used in the trade, such as horseshoes, anvils, rasps, and nippers. This task is typically performed by a senior farrier or the workshop manager, who will explain the purpose and proper usage of each tool.

2. Safety training: Safety is paramount in the farrier profession, so the new employee should receive comprehensive safety training. This includes learning about proper lifting techniques, handling horses safely, and using protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. The workshop manager or a designated safety officer usually conducts this training.

3. Horse anatomy and physiology: A solid understanding of horse anatomy and physiology is crucial for a farrier. The new employee should receive training on the different parts of a horse’s hoof, leg structure, and how it relates to the overall health and soundness of the animal. This task is typically performed by a senior farrier or a specialized equine veterinarian.

4. Shoeing techniques: The new farrier should be trained in various shoeing techniques, including trimming hooves, shaping and fitting horseshoes, and nailing them securely to the hoof. This training is usually provided by experienced farriers who demonstrate the techniques and supervise the new employee’s practice.

5. Forge work and blacksmithing: Many farriers also engage in blacksmithing to create custom horseshoes or modify existing ones. The new employee should receive training in basic forge work, including heating, shaping, and tempering metal. This task is typically performed by a senior farrier or a skilled blacksmith within the company.

6. Client communication and customer service: Farriers often work directly with horse owners, trainers, and veterinarians. Therefore, it is essential for the new employee to learn effective communication skills and develop good customer service practices. This training may be provided by the workshop manager or a senior farrier who emphasizes the importance of professionalism and building strong client relationships.

7. Business management and record-keeping: If the new farrier will be running their own business or managing a client base, they should receive training in business management and record-keeping. This includes learning how to schedule appointments, maintain accurate client records, and handle financial transactions. The workshop manager or a business manager within the company can provide guidance in this area.

8. Continuing education and professional development: The farrier profession is constantly evolving, so it is crucial for the new employee to understand the importance of continuing education and staying updated on the latest industry practices. They should be encouraged to attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to enhance their skills and knowledge. The workshop manager or a senior farrier can guide the new employee in identifying relevant educational opportunities.

9. Company policies and procedures: The new farrier should be familiarized with the company’s policies and procedures, including safety protocols, code of conduct, and any specific guidelines related to client interactions or business operations. This task is typically performed by the workshop manager or a designated HR representative who provides the new employee with an employee handbook and conducts an orientation session.

10. Shadowing and mentorship: To gain practical experience and learn from seasoned professionals, the new farrier should be given opportunities to shadow and work alongside experienced farriers. This allows them to observe and learn advanced techniques, ask questions, and receive guidance on real-world scenarios. The workshop manager or senior farriers within the company can facilitate this mentorship process

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Farrier checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Farrier up to speed and working well in your Agriculture team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.