02/10/16

The Importance of Safety Training

Safety training is vital to every construction workplace, and should include all employees whether they are full- or part-time, new hires, contract workers, supervisors and managers or workers in high risk areas. Do not overlook the long-term worker whose job changes as a result of new processes or materials.

Some companies tend to be apprehensive about the amount of time and cost involved with safety training and development; however, reports show that the investment in training guarantees positive results, and helps decrease workplace hazards, injuries and deaths.

Training does come with a cost, but workplace accidents cost much more.

Costs to the employee due to an accident could include:

  • Lost wages; injury or death; mental anguish; physical pain and suffering; decreased active participation with family and friends; and the inability to be productive on or off the job.

Costs to the employer could include:

  • Workers’ Compensation claims; medical bills; associated legal fees; possible increased insurance costs and uninsured property damage costs; loss of a valuable employee; lost efficiency on the job while training someone new; damaged or destroyed equipment, materials or tools and more.

Most of the injuries that result from workplace accidents could have been prevented with increased awareness of possible hazards and proper training. Properly trained employees are more likely to notice and report problems so that solutions can be found before an accident occurs.

Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility. Report unsafe acts and near-misses immediately. Listen and learn from all training provided, and be an active participant in learning a job skill or safety issue. Ask questions if training or instruction is not clear. Readdress issues with the supervisor on unresolved topics. Be an active part of the safety of your jobsite. Participate in safety meetings and training sessions, and set a good example for others on the work crew.

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