Is investing in workplace training good business?

Training is an effective way to communicate OHS information, upskill personnel and improve safety performance and culture.

Legal obligations require an employer “to provide information, instruction, training or supervision to employees of the employer as is necessary to enable persons to perform their work in a way that is safe and without risks to health”. OHS Act 2004, Section 21 (2) (e).

This means ensuring that employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their work safely

What constitutes the training requirement?

• General Training: This may cover basic OHS information such as hazard identification, risk assessment, and understanding safe work practices (the hierarchy of controls and why). This training is transferrable across all roles and industries.
• Industry-Specific Training: Some industries have unique hazards and risks which require specific solutions. This includes but is not limited to construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, mining and transport. Tailored training will ensure employees know how to respond to their workplace circumstances.
• Role-Specific Training: For personnel with assigned responsibilities such as Managers and Supervisors, role-specific training may be necessary to provide a basis for understanding legal duties and safety management systems.

How can training be implemented?

• Identify and Assess Training Needs: Employers should consider the risk profile of the business to identify the specific hazards and risks that employees may face. This will help determine the type of training that is relevant for planning.
• Select an Approved Training Provider: Training service providers can offer solutions that meet the business needs. Whether face to face or online, courses cover general topics and industry specific requirements, such as accredited training.
• Schedule Training: Training once commenced will be ongoing. This includes refresher sessions to ensure employee competencies and knowledge remains current. Most new employees (including contractors) will undergo an induction program upon commencement. This may be updated periodically to ensure changes are communicated.
• Monitor and Evaluate: A continuous improvement initiative is to regularly assess the effectiveness of organisational training programs. Surveys and feedback are options to evaluate the effectiveness of the training. Consult with your employees or engage a Consultant to assist with identification of training needs.

Review your training programs today to ensure your team’s safety and success… Further details or assistance to help develop training programs, please visit the HAZCON website www.HAZCON.com.au