Health and Safety Training
People are a danger to themselves or others if they cannot do their jobs correctly. This can be because they are in jobs for which they are unsuited and/or are not competent.
All work place training should be ongoing; it should refresh workers' memory/application and identify any changes in practices, machinery or procedures.
Some groups, such as young people, new and expectant mothers, and those with a disability, need special consideration.
The objectives of H&S training are to:
- Raise standards
- Raise levels of awareness
- Improve safety standards
- Meet legal responsibilities
- Meet policy objectives.
The aim of training can be due to:
- a statutory compliance e.g. first-aid
- maintaining positive mental attitude
- keeping workers up-to-date with methods and technology
- assist in human error prevention.
Training must be provided to meet the law in at least the following:
- Induction training for new starters (refer also to the section on Induction training)
- First-aid and other emergency arrangements
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Specific risks (e.g. machinery safety, manual handling)
- H&S Roles and responsibilities of people in the organisation
- Fire evacuation
Training can be:
- Job specific
- Specialised training
- Reinforcement
Supervisory and Management Training can include:
- Safety programmes and policy
- Legal frame work and specific laws/rules
- Safety inspection techniques
- Cause and consequence of accidents
- Basic accident prevention techniques
- Discipline procedures
- Control of workplace hazards
- Motivational techniques
When looking at health and safety training you may need to take the following considerations:
- Age - it may take more time depending young inexperienced staff or older staff
- Experience - how much to they already know
- Knowledge - does it need updating or expanding
- Individual learning capability
- Ongoing training requirements
Employers should also consider training of people returning after long-term illness, as they may need help readjusting to their jobs.
Remember to record any training given and also have employees sign off their attendance and understanding of the training given. | 
