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Warehouse · Manufacturing · Plants

Workplace Basics

The exact English you need on the floor: shift start, machines, instructions from your supervisor, and asking for help.

0 of 15 lessons complete

Level 1 — Your first shift

Clocking in, names of the basics, and understanding simple instructions.

  1. Lesson 1Starting your shiftClock in, greet your team, and get your assignment.
  2. Lesson 2Words you hear on the floorUnderstand pallet, forklift, line, PPE, and more.
  3. Lesson 3Understanding instructionsRepeat back the task so there is no mistake.
  4. Lesson 4Asking for help and reporting a problemSpeak up early instead of hiding a problem.

Level 2 — Working with your team

Breaks, calling out, meetings, and talking with your supervisor.

  1. Lesson 5Breaks, overtime, and scheduleTalk about time without confusion.
  2. Lesson 6Calling out sickMake the call clearly and politely.
  3. Lesson 7Team meetings and shift handoverUnderstand the huddle and give your update.

Level 3 — Machines, quality and paperwork

The words that keep production moving.

  1. Lesson 8When a machine stopsReport a machine problem fast and clearly.
  2. Lesson 9Quality and defectsSay a part is bad and stop it from shipping.
  3. Lesson 10Shift handoffPass clear information to the next shift.
  4. Lesson 11Forklifts and floor trafficMove safely around powered equipment and talk to drivers.

Level 4 — Growing at work

Feedback, mistakes, HR and moving up.

  1. Lesson 12Admitting a mistakeOwn an error the professional way.
  2. Lesson 13Getting and giving feedbackHear coaching without fear and share your own ideas.
  3. Lesson 14HR, pay and time offAsk about your paycheck, benefits and vacation.
  4. Lesson 15Asking for moreAsk for training, cross-training, or a promotion.