Training - Part 1 of 2

Training is required by law.  OSHA requires training, but is rarely specific about what training is required.  In the Introduction to OSHA training session, the first action required of workers is “Read the [OSHA] poster.”  The OSHA poster contains a good deal of information for the worker about awareness and reporting of hazards – the basis of training.

Training is required at two times: 1) On initial assignment; and 2) When the assignment, hazards or standards change.  These two consist of basic safety training, plus training in special skills or hazards for workers who might be exposed to those hazards.  All employees need to be trained in basic safety, but not all workers need training in welding, fighting chemical fires or driving forklifts.

OSHA provides, but does not mandate the content of most training.  The 10-hour or 30-hour courses presented by Outreach Trainers are not mandatory – the content is partially mandated, for issuing cards proving completion of the courses, but the courses themselves are not mandatory.  The 10- and 30-hours courses do present a “shorthand” to describe the content of the courses, thus the understanding that the worker has a base level of knowledge.

In the area of specialized training, OSHA does not mandate content.  The mandate from OSHA is that the employer must be satisfied that the operator has the skills and the hazard and safety rules awareness to be a forklift operator.  More on this subject in Part 2.

A fairly recent development is the requirement for presenting all training in the worker’s Language of Understanding.  The Language of Understanding refers to the primary language spoken and understood by the workers, modified to his/her education level.  Courses must be presented in a language and at a level understood by the workers in the course.  It is a citable violation to do otherwise.

This brings us to discussing Training Records.  Clients and OSHA frequently request training records.  Clients want proof of training to meet internal and insurance requirements.  OSHA looks for proof the employer has met the training obligation.  Failure to properly train can be cited.

Training is the law and has a proven direct and indirect financial benefit in reducing injuries and illnesses. 

See our Web site: SafetyRich