Safety culture goes beyond traditional systems and KPIs; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to safety among employees. For those who undergo training, developing lasting dispositions—like reflection, imagination, and creativity—can motivate them to become better thinkers and learners. These dispositions need to be nurtured across various safety scenarios to become ingrained.
In organizations with large contractor workforces, effective risk management hinges on enhanced safety practices. It’s not just a one-time effort; the ever-changing landscape of technology, regulations, and processes necessitates ongoing training. Research shows that most people forget around 70% of new information within a day, underscoring the urgency for refresher safety trainings. Here are the top five reasons why the importance of these trainings has surged:
- Frequent Role Changes Employees often switch roles and responsibilities, requiring them to perform specific tasks like operating heavy machinery or conducting extensive repairs. Inadequate training can lead to skipped steps or improper use of specialized equipment, resulting in injuries and disrupted work quality. Proper refresher training ensures workers can transition confidently between jobs and locations.
- Human Error is Inevitable While automation and technology have transformed the workplace, they can’t completely eliminate human mistakes or the limitations of our mental capacity. Everyone retains information differently, and various situations can make individuals more prone to forgetting essential techniques and precautions. Regular retraining mitigates dangerous consequences, especially in environments with volatile materials and extreme conditions.
- Meeting Workforce Expectations Millennials, aged 25 to 39, now make up the largest segment of the workforce. This generation places a high value on training and development; many may leave a job if they don’t receive adequate training. Continuous training not only enhances employee satisfaction but also builds confidence in their abilities. With web-based technologies, employers can efficiently track employee certifications and provide on-demand refresher courses that cater to diverse learning styles.
- Establishing New Learning Curves As learning becomes more accessible and training needs easier to track, new equipment and technologies require updated operational techniques. Refresher courses reinforce existing skills, address knowledge gaps, and ensure workers are aware of machine hazards and proper personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. This creates a safer, more confident workforce equipped to handle new challenges.
- Increased Priority Due to Evolving Regulations Recent high-profile workplace accidents have highlighted the dire consequences of inadequate safety training. Awareness of safety risks and the importance of preventative measures has intensified. As regulations continue to evolve, ongoing training is vital to protecting worksites, ensuring workers return home safely, and mitigating supply chain risks.
For organizations looking to enhance their safety training programs, consider exploring options like those offered by Core EHS. Learn more about effective safety training at Core EHS.