How well do you train employees?
This week’s question is: how well does your company train employees regarding safety?
To train effectively, we must look at how we train and then confirm that the training is understood and useable. Yes, training will take a little time, but it could wind up being well worth it. One eye injury can result in significant unplanned company expenses to maintain production.
Training is appropriate when someone is hired or for retraining permanent employees if a new process or procedure is introduced. Training for new hires should be tailored to the job they will perform. Spend the time to introduce the hazards of the task, the personal protective equipment required, and if chemicals are involved, the function of the Safety Data Sheet.
All too often operations create an imaginary barrier or bureaucracy that adds complexities to safety programs. Examine if any hindrances may be true within your own company. Be transparent, allow questions from employees and train for the exception that may never happen, but could.
Continue training on all levels of your operation. It is important to review and update safety materials. Do not become complacent in observing your work environment. Here are more tools to help your training programs:
RS Safety Library (members-only access)
WR employs Rick Means as a Safety Specialist. He’s available to members to help draw up safety plans and suggest topics for safety meetings. Contact him at 360-943-9198, Ext. 18 or [email protected]
