Construction Safety Essentials

Transcription

1 Leading the World to a Safer Workplace Construction Safety Essentials Training Guide

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3 Contents Training Guide Overview Suggested Two Hour Training Session...4 Programme Script...5 Know Your Workplace...6 Housekeeping...7 Working at Height...8 Electricity...10 Fire...11 Plant, Tools and Equipment...12 Personal Protective Equipment...13 Hazardous Materials...13 Excavations...14 Confined Spaces...15 The Elements...15 Manual Handling...16 Public Safety...17 Summary Key Point Sheets...18 Housekeeping...18 Slips, Trips & Falls...19 Height Work...19 Hazardous Materials...20 Electricity...21 Fire...22 Manual Handling...23 Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 1

4 4 Training Questions Answers to Training Questions Additional Training Ideas How to Improve Your Training Session Developing an Effective Training Programme This training guide and video production have been made only as a guide and may not conform with current and local standards, statutes, regulations, requirements and procedures. The training package may or may not be relevant to your particular standards and needs. Trainers should make their own enquiries and seek the assistance of local authorities, experts and consultants. This training package is merely an aid to learning and understanding and is not a substitute for practice, experience, drills and hands-on instruction and tuition which is essential. VOCAM LTD and other parties involved in this production shall not be liable for any expenses, claims, damages, suits, actions, judgements and costs whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with or howsoever caused by this production and whether arising from contract, tort, negligence, strict liability statute or howsoever otherwise. DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced by any means without written permission from the author, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review. Copyright Vocam Ltd Aus Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

5 Training Guide Overview This programme and training guide have been produced to provide you with a convenient, up to date training resource which will help educate and train personnel at all levels within your organization. Construction site hazards are numerous and complacency towards these hazards is a leading factor in most work accidents. Personnel need to be reminded that safety should never be taken for granted. This training programme reinforces the basic principles of construction site safety. Practical guidance is also provided in relation to the major workplace hazards personnel are most likely to face. The "Construction Safety Essentials" training guide consists of 5 main sections: 1. Suggested two hour training session 2. Construction Safety Essentials programme script 3. Key point sheets 4. Training questions and answers 5. Additional training ideas The training guide also provides you with general guidelines concerning: 6. How to improve your training sessions, and 7. How to develop an effective training programme Key Point Sheets Summary sheets highlighting key information have been provided for use as overheads. Photocopies of these sheets can also be used as a reference point by personnel during training sessions. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 3

6 1 Suggested Two Hour Training Session This training session can be adapted to suit the time requirements of your organization by omitting sections of the module considered low priority. However, it is recommended that in order to gain full benefit from the programme and other resources provided the training session be undertaken in its entirety. 10 mins Introduce the group to the aim of the training session: New personnel or those who have moved to a new job or work area, or contractors new to the site, face additional risks. Knowledge of the job, the site, potential hazards and workplace pressures all play a part in job safety. Experienced personnel also face particular risks: complacency, overfamiliarity, boredom, the temptation to take short cuts and lack of attentiveness. In this programme we have highlighted some of the major hazard areas which personnel may face. Particular safety measures and an attitude of work safety are stressed. Briefly touch on the main points that will be raised in the programme. 40 mins Show the programme. Go over any matters which personnel are not clear on. After each section of the programme get personnel to relate what they have learnt to their own work environment/tasks. 50 mins Discuss with the group. the existence of workplace hazards which may exist in their work areas on site effective ways to reduce the risks associated with these hazards how well personnel know their work areas (location of exits, fire extinguishers, first aid stations, who the first aid officers in their area are etc.) go over the matters contained in the Key Point Sheets and Additional Training Ideas section of the guide (see pages & 27) 20 mins Complete training questions. Ask personnel to fill out the included Training Questions (see page 24). Discuss responses with the group. 4 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

7 Programme Script 2 Construction site safety is everyone's responsibility. Whether you are new to the job or have twenty years experience it still only takes one slip up for a bad accident to occur. You must therefore always make safety your number one priority. You may not realise it but if you are a new employee or have moved into a new job area, or you are a contractor new to the site, you fall into a high risk category. You have a new job environment to familiarize yourself with, new site procedures and tasks to learn, new people to know and communicate with and new workplace pressures and hazards. All of this requires extra care and diligence on your part. In this video we will be highlighting some of the essentials of construction safety. Whether you work on a small construction site or a major development the safety principles covered in this video will be applicable. We will look in particular at the different types of hazards which you need to guard against and suggest practical ways to make your work day a safe day. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 5

8 Know Your Workplace Construction sites can be very dangerous places and unfortunately they account for a large proportion of workplace injuries and fatalities. It is therefore vital that you are familiar with your work environment and the job you are required to undertake. Before starting work in a new area walk around and familiarize yourself with your surroundings and check for any workplace hazards. Think about what could go wrong at each stage of what you do. Be prepared for an emergency situation. Know where first attack fire fighting equipment is located and how to use it. Find out where the nearest first aid station is and who are the first aiders in your area. Make sure you are familiar with the company s health & safety policy and know the specific safety requirements of the site you are working on. There can be many hazards on a construction site, some obvious and others hard to detect. Your ability to identify site hazards and assess the danger is vital to not only your safety but also that of your workmates. Let's now examine a range of common construction site hazards and look at the measures you can take to help reduce the risks. 6 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

9 Housekeeping Poor housekeeping is so often found to be the cause of accidents at work. Protruding pipes, exposed nails and reinforcing rods, electrical cords near water or equipment left lying on the ground - by simply noticing these hazards and either removing the problem, repairing or reporting it you will be helping to prevent accidents. Never underestimate the hazards associated with poor housekeeping and do not simply assume that someone else will come along and clean things up. Housekeeping is everybody s responsibility. Remember to keep platforms, floors, roadways, work and access areas clear. Store tools, equipment and materials tidily and in their appropriate areas. Never block fire extinguishers, emergency exits or first aid stations. And if you make a mess then remember to clean it up immediately. INTERACTIVE QUESTION Name three housekeeping tasks that will help make you workplace safer? Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 7

10 Working at Height Even if you are only a couple of metres off the ground an awkward fall could cause serious injuries or even result in your death. There are many height hazards which you need to guard against. Openings such as holes in floors, gaps on working platforms, shafts and stairwells must be covered over, barricaded or fenced off. Before starting work check your clearance from any overhead power lines. Don't take risks - discuss awkward access situations with your supervisor. Always choose the most suitable equipment for the job and the particular site and access conditions. In the case of elevated work platforms make sure they are situated on firm level ground. If the unit is fitted with outriggers then make sure these are properly extended and chocked before raising the platform. Always wear a safety harness secured to the platform by a short life line. You must also exercise great care when working from scaffolding. Scaffolds must be fully boarded and guard rails and toe boards in place. Before commencing work carry out inspections of the scaffold to make sure it is safe. 8 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

11 When using a ladder make sure you have both hands free for climbing. Carry tools in a belt or shoulder bag and hoist equipment up to the work area. The ladder must be placed on a firm, level surface. Tie off the ladder to a secure object and at it s base where practical and do not stretch in order to reach something. Climb down and move the ladder instead. Your ladder must be correctly angled to minimize the risk of slipping outwards. As a rule of thumb the ladder should be one metre out for every four up. Rest the ladder against a solid surface and make sure it extends over one metre above the landing platform. When working at height also be conscious of the safety of those below you. Toe boards, mesh infills, screens or other means of stopping falling objects should be installed. Be especially cautious when working on a roof, many hazards exist. Roofs made of fragile materials, roof lights and roof openings, sloping and slippery surfaces. Stay alert to the hazards and always take great care. It only takes one false move for disaster to strike. INTERACTIVE QUESTION When working at height what safety precautions should always be employed? Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 9

12 Electricity Because our bodies are made up mainly of water they make excellent conductors. Electricity adopts a path of least resistance and you could easily provide that path if you do not take care. Keep an eye out for electrical hazards: cracked or faulty insulation equipment that is overheating damp or humid conditions Always adopt safe work practices when dealing with electricity. Remove metal wrist watches, jewellery and belts with large metal buckles. Make sure you wear non-conductive footwear. Before starting work check to see that your tools are in good shape and clean. Your electrical equipment should also be thoroughly inspected by a competent person on a regular basis and records maintained of these inspections. Remember to keep power cords well away from heat sources, wet areas, sharp objects and other places where they could get damaged. Run cables at height to keep them dry and prevent them from being damaged. When working near live power cables, ideally use nonconductive wooden or fibre glass ladders. Remember to keep as far away from power lines and electrical cables as possible especially in damp conditions. Trip or earth leakage devices cut the current if contact is made with any live part. These devices should be in place and checked on a regular basis. 10 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

13 Fire The potential for a fire to break out on a construction site should never be underestimated. Even small fires can be costly in terms of damage and delay. So what exactly should you as an employee or a contractor do to help reduce the chance of fire breaking out? For a start, you need to be on the lookout for possible fire hazards such as: electrical wiring defects flammable vapours and dust accumulated rubbish or flammable liquid spills and hot work activities. When carrying out hot work, make sure whenever possible that it happens in designated areas where no fire risk exists. There should be no combustible material in the near vicinity and check to see that fire fighting equipment is close by. Remember that good housekeeping and the proper disposal of rubbish and waste material is a vital part of any fire safety programme. You must also know what to do in a fire emergency situation. Remember to follow the sites fire response procedures, keep you head and above all do not panic. Know where fire extinguishers and hose reels are located. It is important to use the right type of extinguisher on the material which is burning. Ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper and textiles are best extinguished by using water. In the case of flammable liquids use foam extinguishers to smother the flames. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are good general purpose extinguishers and are ideal for use on electrical fires. Dry chemical extinguishers can also be used on electrical fires but are not as effective on wood or paper fires as water extinguishers. Do not use water or foam extinguishers on an electrical fire - you could electrocute yourself! If the fire alarm goes off then immediately stop working and evacuate to the assembly area. Remain at the assembly point until everyone is accounted for and the all clear has been given. INTERACTIVE QUESTION Where are the fire extinguishers and safe assembly areas in your workplace? Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 11

14 Plant, Tools and Equipment The tools and equipment you use must be kept in safe working order. Make sure you choose the right tool or piece of equipment for the job and check it thoroughly before use. With machinery it's a good idea to have a written pre-operation checklist which you should go through before commencing work. If any faults or problems are identified then immediately get these attended to. Do not attempt to operate faulty equipment. Special care must be taken when working with or near hoists and mobile cranes. Complacency concerning their safe use will often end in disaster. Also stay alert to the movement of site vehicles. Wear high visibility clothing when working with mobile plant or if you are near roadways. It may be mandatory on your site for all personnel to wear high visibility clothing. Always travel at a safe speed. 12 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

15 Personal Protective Equipment The tasks you undertake everyday will normally involve wearing some form of personal protective equipment. P.P.E. as it is commonly referred to may include items such as gloves, protective eye wear, safety harnesses and so on. When working on a construction site it is essential that you wear a hard hat and steel capped safety boots. Because construction sites are often very noisy you must also make a point of wearing adequate ear protection. Whenever you wear P.P.E. do not let it give you a false sense of security. The hazards are still out there - by wearing P.P.E. you are just limiting your exposure to those hazards. You must therefore make sure that other control measure are in place to help reduce the risks. When choosing P.P.E. make sure it matches the hazard. It should fit correctly, be comfortable and it must be compatible with other items of P.P.E. Hazardous Materials Whenever you work with chemicals or other hazardous materials you must always exercise caution and care. Get into the habit of firstly checking for any warning signs on the container label. If you need more information or are unfamiliar with the material then ask your supervisor for a copy of the relevant materials safety data sheet. This contains information about how to use, handle and store the chemical safely. If you are not sure about how to handle or work with any hazardous substance then do not take the risk. Ask your supervisor and find out before it's too late. Remember that hazardous materials may enter your body by being absorbed through your skin or eyes. By being inhaled or by being ingested when you swallow. Make sure you also know what to do in the event of a hazardous materials accident occurring on site. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 13

16 Excavations Ground work can be extremely hazardous - trench collapse, objects falling onto people, vehicles or personnel falling into the excavation, undermining of nearby structures. Proper precautions must be taken at all times. Never be tempted to take short cuts - the risks are simply too great. Always excavate using safe digging practices. Prevent trench collapse by either reducing the slope of the trench walls or installing a suitable support system. Store excavated spoil, plant or materials well away from the sides of excavations. Always make sure you know where underground services are before starting to dig. At the beginning of your shift check for evidence of slides or cave-ins and make sure trench supports are secure. Excavations should be barricaded and prominent warning signs displayed. Make a point of always following established safety procedures. 14 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

17 Confined Spaces Entry into a confined space can be one of the most hazardous activities which you as a construction worker may be faced with. Be aware of the confined spaces which may exist on site. Generally they will be areas with limited openings for personnel to enter and exit and are not designed for regular occupancy. They may be areas which contain or cause an accumulation of atmospheric hazards. They may also have a deficiency or over supply of oxygen. Confined space entry is a specialised field requiring detailed training and a thorough understanding of the appropriate work and safety practices. Do not attempt to enter a confined space unless you are fully trained and know what you are doing. INTERACTIVE QUESTION What are two things that need to be checked before you enter a confined space? The Elements As a construction worker you are particularly vulnerable to U.V. exposure and you must make a point of regularly checking all parts of your body for skin cancer. No one knows your skin better than you do and the earlier you detect an irregularity the less chance it will have of causing you a health problem. Remember that the ultra-violet hazard is greatest between 11am and 3pm. Be sunsmart. Place a neck protector under your hard hat. Wear clothing made of closely knit material and shirts that have long sleeves and collars. Also make a point of applying sunblock to exposed areas of skin prior to working outside. As a construction worker you also need to guard against extremes of heat or cold. Make sure you keep your fluid intake up in both hot and cold conditions and stay alert for signs of physical distress. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 15

18 Manual Handling Your back needs to be treated with care, it only has to be injured on one occasion and you could be afflicted with back problems for the rest of your life. Wherever possible save your back by using mechanical aids to move loads. The key to proper lifting is to keep the three curves of your back in their natural positions. Always adopt the following essential steps: Firstly, stop and think. Plan the lift by checking the weight of the load. Are there any suitable mechanical aids which could be used? Stand close to the load with feet apart so that you have a balanced stable base for lifting. Do not bend your back. Bend at the knees and keep your back as straight as possible. Get a firm grip and move the load close to your body. Do not jerk the load - lift it smoothly. Always keep your arms and the load close to your body and when turning, use your feet rather than twisting the body. When carrying out a team lift make sure that one person gives clear instructions during the lift. Remember when lifting to use any available support, and do not try to act the hero. If there is a potential risk to your back then find a mechanical aid or get somebody to help you. INTERACTIVE QUESTION What are three things that you can do to protect your back when moving a load? 16 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

19 Public Safety Never compromise the safety of members of the public. Sufficient safeguards must always be in place. For example: protection from falling materials signs for traffic and pedestrians barriers and safe walking surfaces Store your equipment and materials so they will not injure anyone and make sure there are no tripping hazards. Summary As we have seen in this video, construction site accidents can be prevented if you adopt an attitude of work safety. Do not simply rush into a job. Always take the time to assess a work situation and find ways of reducing the risks before proceeding. If you are new to a job then you are particularly vulnerable but even experienced workers need to make safety their number one priority. Complacency on the job will end in disaster - it just needs that one slip up to occur so make sure you stay alert. Let's make every day a safe work day - think safety! Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 17

20 3 Key Point Sheets Housekeeping ** Housekeeping is everyone s responsibility ** That includes YOU! Advantages of Good Housekeeping Less clutter and rubbish (these are the most common causes of fire and accidental injury) You can find what you are looking for quicker (improved efficiency and production and less frustration) Neat work area (more enjoyable and comfortable to work in) Key Steps to Good Housekeeping Machines (keep clean and follow maintenance routines, check machine guards, power cables and switches -- report any defects immediately) Tools (clean off dirt and oil, store in appropriate area, repair or report defects) Storage (materials/substances must be clearly labelled, store in designated areas, keep containers secure) Floors/Aisles/Access areas/platforms (keep clear of debris and rubbish, do not store materials etc. where they could create a hazard) Personal Protective Equipment (keep clean and store correctly) 18 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

21 Slips, Trips & Falls Stay alert at all times Report hazards immediately or fix the problem Keep all platforms, stairs, walkways and roads clear Slow down when travelling over greasy surfaces Choose non-slip footwear If a spill occurs then clean it up immediately. Block off the area while you go and get any cleaning aids Alert others in the area to the hazard Make sure your work area is well lit Hold on to handrails Do not run or jump down from equipment Height Work Always plan your work before proceeding Check clearance from overhead power lines Your equipment must be suitable for the job Situate EWP's on firm level ground Scaffolds -- fully boarded, guard rails and toe boards Take one step at a time when going up or down stairs/ladders and use both hands for climbing Get materials/equipment hoisted up Ladder must extend 1 metre above landing platform Tie off ladder to secure object Ladder must be correctly angled (1 in 4) Be conscious of the safety of those below you Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 19

22 Hazardous Materials Be aware of the hazardous substances used and stored in your work area Read container labels and thoroughly check relevant Safety Data Sheets before using a chemical Know your organization's procedures for dealing with hazardous substances Always follow your organization's procedures Do not take shortcuts! Check containers regularly for leaks Make sure all containers are clearly labelled Never store flammable or explosive materials near a heat source Never undertake hot work near a flammable or explosive material Always wear the correct P.P.E. - it must match the hazard Do not wear contaminated P.P.E. Dispose of chemical containers correctly and in accordance with your organization s procedures Wash your hands thoroughly after working with chemicals Keep work clothing well away from your out of work clothing 20 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

23 Electricity Avoid Electrical Hazards Make sure you are working in a safe environment Do not wear jewellery or metal wrist watches Check insulation regularly Make sure your tools and equipment are clean Look out for overheating equipment Keep machines well maintained and lubricated Use tools with insulated hand grips Ground/Earth leakage devices to be checked regularly Wear non-conductive footwear Check that electrical equipment has been recently inspected by a competent person Electric Shock Action ** Do not touch person if connected to live circuit ** 1. Shout for help and switch off the power 2. If you cannot turn off power - try to separate the power source from the casualty: use a non-conductive implement such as a wooden broom if this is not possible or high voltage equipment is involved contact emergency services 3. Seek urgent first aid and medical attention Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 21

24 Fire Stay Alert for Hazards Overheating equipment Accumulated rubbish (poor housekeeping) Cracked/Faulty electrical insulation Spilled flammable material Hot work activities Overloaded equipment/circuits Storage of flammable material near a heat source Electrical wiring defects Explosive dangers (flammable vapours, dust etc.) Failure to switch off equipment when not being used Raise the alarm What to do in a Fire Emergency Assist personnel in danger, but only if safe to do so Close off the affected area Call the fire brigade Attack the fire (fire extinguishers, hose reels), but only if safe to do so Move to emergency assembly area Stay at the assembly area until the all clear has been given 22 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

25 Manual Handling Essential Lifting Steps Wherever possible use a mechanical aid to assist you Get additional help if necessary (don't risk it!) Plan the lift Check the weight of the load Is the route you are planning to travel free of obstructions? Is the place you are planning to put the load free of obstructions? Stand close to the load Place feet apart so as to establish a wider stability base Bend at the knees Pull the load close to your body Get a firm grip Lift smoothly Keep your back straight Let your legs provide the force for lifting Look where you are going Do not twist your upper body when turning, move your feet When depositing the load once again bend at the knees and keep your back straight ** The key to good lifting is to keep the 3 curves of your back in their natural position ** Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 23

26 4 Training Questions Name Date / / Department Question 1: What should you check before plugging in a piece of electrical equipment? Question 2: What are the six important steps to remember when lifting an object? i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. Question 3: Fill in the blank: Most of the power for lifting should come from your. Question 4: If a fire breaks out on site what should your response be? 24 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

27 Question 5: What is the most important consideration in the selection of P.P.E.? Question 6: Is the following statement true or false? P.P.E. which fits well and is used correctly helps remove the hazard. True False Question 7: What type(s) of fire extinguisher should be used on an electrical fire? Question 8: What essential safety measures should you take when using a ladder? Question 9: What can you do to reduce your exposure to harmful U.V. (ultraviolet) rays? Question 10: Slips, trips and falls should be guarded against by reducing the risks. How can you help to reduce the risks? Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 25

28 Answers to Training Questions Question 1: Check that the equipment and power point are turned off, check insulation (for wear, cuts, adequacy), connections, current test tag. Are power cables safely positioned? Question 2: i. plan the lift ii. stand close to the load iii. keep your back straight iv. get a firm grip v. lift smoothly vi. keep the load close to your body Question 3: Most of the power for lifting should come from your legs. Question 4: Assist any person in immediate danger but only if it is safe to do so, raise the alarm and call the emergency services, attack the fire but only if it is safe to do so, evacuate to the assembly area and remain there until everyone is accounted for and the all clear has been given. Question 5: The nature of the hazard. Question Question Question Question 6: False - Wearing P.P.E. only reduces your exposure to the hazard. The hazard still exists. 7: Non-conductive extinguishers. i.e. Carbon dioxide or Dry powder extinguishers. 8: Use both hands for climbing. Get materials and equipment hoisted up to the work area. Do not overreach, climb down and move the ladder instead. Place ladder at the correct angle (1 in 4). Tie the ladder off to secure object. 9: Where possible avoid extended exposure between 11am and 3pm when the U.V. hazard is at its peak. Place a neck protector under your hard hat. Wear clothing made of closely knit material and shirts that have long sleeves and collars. Regularly apply a 15+ sunblock to exposed areas of skin. Can work be moved to shaded areas or temporary screens provided? Question 10: Slow down, hold on to railings, go up and down stairs and ladders one at a time, wear non-slip footwear, watch where you are going, make sure work areas are well lit, clean up greasy surfaces. 26 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

29 Additional Training Ideas 5 An important part of training is validation or in other words making sure that personnel thoroughly understand the material covered in the programme. As part of this validation process, photocopy the questionnaire (see page 24) and provide a copy for personnel to complete. Get personnel to carry out an inspection of their work areas on site for the types of hazards highlighted in the programme. Provide personnel with a copy of the Key Points Sheets for this purpose. Discuss ways to reduce these hazards and introduce safeguards to regularly control these hazards in the future. Are work routines creating manual handling or ergonomic problems for personnel? Can these routines or work areas/layouts be altered to help minimize the risks? Are personnel wearing appropriate P.P.E. which matches the hazards on site? Discuss with personnel the need to assess the dangers which may confront them in their work areas and how to go about choosing the correct P.P.E. Electrical hazards should not be underestimated. Are personnel creating additional hazards by wearing jewellery or working with unsafe equipment? Are effective machine maintenance routines in place and are these being adhered to? Simulate an electrical accident situation and get personnel to respond. Review the correct responses with personnel. Can chemical storage be improved? Are there any hazards inherent in the way chemicals are being stored or used by personnel? Correct manual handling techniques need to be practised by personnel. Using a variety of common lifting situations, demonstrate to personnel correct lifting techniques. Discuss the availability and suitability of mechanical lifting aids. Are personnel aware of what to do in a fire emergency situation? Carry out a fire evacuation drill and get personnel to note any problems which they may have encountered. Do personnel know where fire extinguishers and hose reels are located? Go over basic extinguisher and fire hose use with personnel. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 27

30 6 How to Improve Your Training Session Set Aims or Objectives Before holding training sessions or commencing a safety programme, make sure you have set some clear aims concerning what you want from the session and the direction in which you want it to go. Write down your aims or objectives and make them specific, clear and simple. Your main aim should be to educate, involve, motivate and inspire the personnel you are training. Be Prepared Research the particular safety and training area thoroughly. The better your grasp of the subject matter the more interesting and dynamic the training session will be. Before holding a training session make notes on the central issues raised in the programme. Consider the range of attitudes that may exist in the workplace. Are there any examples which can be shown to personnel? Read supportive material, gather local knowledge and information, plan your training session details and make prompt notes to keep you on the right track during the session. Recent incidents should also be looked into for use as discussion points. Use visual aids such as posters, brochures, overhead projections and wall charts - even material from other companies can be helpful. Stimulate Involvement Make your training sessions as interactive as possible. Personnel will find such sessions more interesting and they will be more receptive to new information if they can be actively involved. Encourage questions and pose problems. Draw on your own knowledge and experience and that of your group. Sharing experiences and ideas will benefit everyone. Also try to conduct your training sessions as a discussion rather than a formal lesson. 28 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

31 Make it fun Try making your safety meetings more fun. Although the subject matter is serious, you need to give your meetings some lighter moments to keep your audience stimulated. Attitude Your attitude to the material will have an important influence on the people you are training. If you feel indifferent, then your personnel will most likely feel the same way. Keep motivated so that you get a high commitment to your aims from your personnel. Encourage Find ways to praise and encourage your personnel during training sessions. Too much criticism will cause your audience to be turned off. If possible, try to find a way to develop a competition between personnel and between departments. Can incentives be provided for improvements to the topic of concern? Reinforcement At the end of your training session, test personnel on the main points that you have covered (refer to Training Questions ). Also, use a workplace inspection as a vehicle for the group to display their knowledge and commitment to the topic. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 29

32 7 Developing an Effective Training Programme A. Preliminary Considerations 1. Identify training needs. One of the first steps to developing an effective training programme is to identify where there are gaps in personnel knowledge and training and where there is a need for ongoing training. When you have done this you will be able to assess what training should be undertaken as a matter of priority. Also, link similar training together so as to make that training more effective. Try to fit health and safety training together with other specific skills training in your workplace. It is important to reinforce safety at every stage of the training process. 2. Are there any legal requirements? Another preliminary step is to find out what training is required by law in your workplace. For example, legal requirements for certification when working with specific plant and equipment may be necessary. For training to be effective it should relate to the responsibilities that personnel have been given. The level of training must also be appropriate to an individual s language, skill, culture, literacy levels and general ability. Keep training records of: Training needs for each job What training individual personnel have received How effective the training programme has been to date 30 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

33 B. Plan the Programme When planning your training programme you need to consider: 1. What you want to achieve. List the broad aims of your training programme. 2. When you want to achieve it by. Your training plan should include a broad timetable for at least the next 12 months. Priorities should also be set within this timetable. For example new personnel or training for high risk areas of the workplace may be given priority. In setting the timetable you also need to take into account the work schedules of your workplace and personnel. There is no point in organising training for personnel only to find out they cannot be released from duties at the designated training time. 3. Who will conduct the training? You need to work out who is responsible for different types of training. For example supervisors will generally be responsible for on-the-job training. 4. Training records. Training records should include details of: Who has been trained What the training course covered When the training course was held Who provided the training 5. How you will assess the effectiveness of the training? Refer to section D: Assess the training. Vocam Training Guide Construction Safety Essentials 31

34 C. Provide the Training Having identified the training needs of your organization you should then decide what has to be covered in a course or training session to meet the identified training needs. It is also a good idea to inform the work force about the training programme. Time for training must also be built into personnel work programmes. The room where training is carried out should be free from distraction and be adequately equipped (overhead projector, video/dvd player, computer(s), whiteboard etc.) Training aids like these can be hired if necessary. D. Assess the Training Evaluation is an essential part of the training cycle: Start with aims you had at the beginning Determine relevant measures of effectiveness Collect information on these measures Analyse the information and work out where changes need to be made to the training plan Rework your plan and put the changes into effect If you consider that there is a need for change to your training programme make a point of reviewing the: Training needs of the personnel Aims of the programme and individual courses Type of course Trainer/s Course content Timetable Facilities 32 Construction Safety Essentials Vocam Training Guide

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