Read the case study below, entitled “Training: It’s on all of us,” and discuss with employees the importance of orientation, ongoing training and continuous learning for a safe workplace. Encourage workers to share how training has helped them in the past and where they would like to learn more or continue learning.

1. Training is a shared responsibility

  • Everyone, from leadership to employees, plays a role in maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Leadership should provide comprehensive training, ensure continuous improvement and employees follow all procedures.
  • Manager/supervisors should give real-time feedback on safety, help ensure understanding of training and support ongoing safety improvements.

2. Employees play a critical role

  • Employees know their jobs best and should notify their manager/supervisor of training opportunities when they spot concerns.
  • Employees should ask for help or additional training when unsure.
  • If you see something, say something. Reporting hazards and concerns is crucial for everyone’s safety.

3. Training options

  • Training comes in various forms (i.e., instructor-led, eLearning, hands-on, job shadowing), catering to different learning styles.
  • Document all training for regulatory compliance and best practice.
  • Encourage peer learning for employee engagement and knowledge sharing.

4. Creating a safe environment

  • Foster a culture where everyone feels empowered to discuss concerns and report hazards.
  • Effective safety and health programs involve everyone.
  • Tailor training to address cultural differences, experiences and languages.

5. Preventing hazards

  • Training may help eliminate hazards before incidents occur.
  • Enure workers integrate safety responsibilities into their daily activities.
  • Continuous learning and asking for help can lead to a safer and more efficient workplace.
CASE STUDY

Training: It's on all of us

In a busy manufacturing plant, John, a new worker, felt both excited and anxious. He had switched careers to support his family and was eager to prove himself. 

“John, we need you to operate the new machine,” his supervisor, Mrs. Johnson, called out. Nervous but determined, John decided to try it on his own instead of asking for help. He made a mistake, causing the machine to jam. Thankfully, safety protocols shut it down, preventing injuries, but causing a delay. 

Mrs. Johnson approached him afterward. “John, it’s important to ask for help if you’re unsure,” she said kindly. “Training is everyone’s responsibility.” 

John admitted, “I didn’t want to bother anyone.” 

“It’s never a bother,” Mrs. Johnson reassured him. “We value safety above all else. It’s better to ask for more training than to risk an accident.” 

Taking her advice, John requested additional training. Over time, John became one of the most skilled workers and eventually a mentor for new employees. 

John’s journey highlighted that asking for more training is crucial in preventing injuries, retaining employees, and boosting productivity. One day, he helped a new employee with the same machine, realizing the importance of a supportive and continuous learning culture.

This example is fictional. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The scenario was created for illustrative purposes only and do not represent real-life situations.

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