Training and Communications
Element 8: Training and Communications, of the current COR audit program is the subject of this article. We are presenting the reader with our guidance regarding the requirements of effective training and communications.
Training comes in many forms, and most popular in today’s current situation, is eLearning. The goal of all workplace training is to provide employees with the knowledge and skills required for the tasks that they are required to perform. The Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Acts (OHSA) states that competent means “a person who, is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to organize the work and its performance.” OSHA also defines the requirements for instructions and training of all workers who will be exposed, or are likely to be exposed, to a hazardous material or physical agent.
With regards to documentation, COR examines any meetings held between workers, supervisors and the employer which table safety issues. Employers should ensure that attendance is maintained, and minutes are generated. This does not include toolbox talks (though those must also be held), but rather requires a formal annual or semi-annual meeting, that everyone attends in one meeting together, or if not feasible, in smaller groups.
The current COR audit tool checks to confirm that an organization undergoing an audit complies with the requirements for training and the audit points. A seasoned COR auditor will examine the following:
The organization’s documented orientation program.
Mandatory safety orientation is provided for all personnel to attend, across the organization.
Attendees and trainers sign the attendance orientation records and the records are maintained.
The employer has verified that training has been provided before any employees start work.
Appropriate job specific training is provided, and the records are retained.
Supervisors have received training in workplace inspections and OH&S responsibilities.
All training is reviewed, and employees are interviewed to determine if the training is effective.
Senior management of the organization holds scheduled health and safety meetings and records of attendance and participation of senior management in safety meetings is available.
Records of safety meetings are retained and available for review.
Two-way communication prevails during these meetings.
The employer hosts scheduled safety talks with all employees.
Does your organization have clear and properly documented training? Do you hold scheduled safety meetings and provide appropriate training to ensure workers stay safe?
Presented by Roger Belair and Jason Colucci - Approved COR Associate Auditors.
