Training Programs and Workplace Safety

Although it may seem obvious, it can’t be said enough: training and workplace safety go hand in hand. If your workforce doesn’t have the knowledge and skills to perform their work, chances are the space won’t be safe for them or their co-workers. It’s important that each workplace, no matter what or where it is, introduces workplace safety training programs. Every program should cover instructions to identify hazards, how report them, and how to deal with incidents. 

Adding safety training programs to the workplace has plenty of advantages. A core program not only protects workers from injury and illnesses, but it also reduces injury costs and turnover. Safety training can increase productivity and raise employee morale. When it comes to training programs, everyone needs to take part. Programs should train managers, supervisors, and all staff. By ensuring everyone’s collaboration, you can gain insights from your team, as well as identify special needs by employee or within a unit.

Safety programs can cover a wide array of topics, but there are some that should never be neglected: 

• Environmental Safety: his includes strategies on how to handle hazardous materials. It includes how to store and dispose of certain types of waste, as well as general office safety.

• Equipment Safety: knowing how to properly use tools and machinery is key to ensuring workplace safety. Becoming skilled to handle a tools is crucial, but there are also certain tools that are specifically designed to add an extra layer of safety while at work. OLFA Safety Knives are purposely engineered with ergonomics in mind. These tools not only deliver the perfect cut, but also reduce injuries and fatigue.

• Workplace Ergonomics: although it’s true that the risks of injury increase when working on a roof or a construction site, it is important to know your way around the workplace to avoid injuries.

• Health Resources: all safety training programs should clearly outline what resources are available for employees. This includes both mental and physical health. With new safety trends surfacing in recent years, managers should look at workers’ health and safety holistically. Be sure to look at your team’s emotional well-being as well as their physical safety.

Of course, not all workplace safety training courses are the same and can differ based on tasks and industries. If you are an HVAC specialist, an electrician or a plumber, you will require different programs with different training requirements and frequency. There’s really no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to workplace safety training. 

So, why are health and safety training programs essential in ensuring workplace safety? Because these programs go beyond the basics of introducing a new worker to the job site. Good programing should try to encompass every situation where the job or working conditions may change. Without a basic understanding of proper safety practices, employees will be at a greater risk for workplace injuries. All of this leads to unnecessary costs and loss of time.  

If you need help understanding the ergonomics and recommended equipment for your workplace, OLFA offers a FREE Safety Evaluation by our trained specialists. An OLFA Safety Evaluation reviews all cutting applications at your facility. Our Safety Specialists then recommend products to maximize your cutting solutions, where each review includes samples and training to ensure everyone on board understands the benefits of each tool. Register now for your complementary safety evaluation!