ABSTRACT
The reputation of a practice may be enhanced or destroyed through the impression created by reception staff. Before setting out to appoint staff the general dental practitioner (GDP) should ask what sort of individual is needed. Having decided the type of person needed, the GDP must then consider where to recruit applicants. Probably the most neglected area of training is that of induction for a new employee, who is all too often introduced to fellow workers and then left to learn about the practice as best they can. A number of proprietary forms can be used for a written contract but any GDP is at liberty to produce their own staff contract. The GDP is required under the Health and Safety at Work Etc Act to provide and maintain a safe working environment. It is permissible for the practice to pay for laundry of overalls, and even to supply protective clothing, provided it is regarded as essential to the job.
