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cords of training activity should be aggregated in a central, ready to access location, and quickly reportable both by employee and by training topic.
Following through with On-the-Floor Observations
Complementing these technological advancements in OJT are simi- lar advancements for on-the-floor observations, which serve as a crucial validation that training is being correctly applied on the floor. The mobile technology also provides a feedback mechanism for re- fining training programs and reinforcing safety standards. Supervi- sors can conduct real-time assessments, identify areas for improve- ment, and provide immediate guidance to employees by utilizing coaching apps designed for on-the-floor observations. This continu- ous cycle of observation, feedback, and implementation ensures that training remains dynamic and responsive to evolving operational needs, ultimately enhancing facility safety in tangible ways.
Much like the OJT app, modern coaching apps create consis- tency in messaging and experience. The app can be accessed via any phone or tablet, effectively equipping every supervisor with the same — already vetted and approved — blueprint for validation and corrective actions as needed. Let’s use lockout tagout (LOTO) training as an example, A follow-up observation can be baked into the LOTO training. A supervisor is alerted the on-the-floor follow up is needed. And every supervisor will conduct the validation ob- servation identically by following the app. Documentation of the follow-up is documented real time and automated. Any corrective action required, is captured and administrated consistently by fol- lowing the blueprint already provided within the app.
Before implementing any new technology, it is important to understand its offline capability as well. Manufacturing floors and machine shops are notorious for WiFi dead zones. But the right technology is built to work around this. Many of the more suc- cessful apps will perform without WiFi, storing the activity locally on the device in the interim, and syncing with the LMS or other company database when the device is back within the organiza- tion’s WiFi.
Flexibility in Safety Training
Thus far our focus has been on-the-floor, task-specific elements. This is not to suggest basic safety training is not important. It most certainly is. After all, standard safety training is the foundation that everything previously discussed is built upon. This foundational safety training is where many organizations already check the box- es. But as with anything, going beyond “checking the boxes” can yield better results.
One way to enhance safety training is to build flexibility into your training program. eLearning is among the most popular forms of training, and should certainly be part of your mix. Getting eLearning content from your LMS provider typically streamlines the training admin and reporting elements, just be sure the safety training content is relevant for your needs. eLearning itself is flex- ible in its ability to be delivered on a company computer in the facility or remotely on nearly any computer or mobile device. But this is still not the be-all and end-all.
Group training using audience response technology is another critical tool in the safety training toolbox, especially for shops and facilities with a sizable workforce. Audience response technology — often referred to as clickers, or remotes — enables an organization to
Intuitive interfaces and comprehensive features include the ability to record processes, input instructions, create quizzes, and generate immersive training experiences.
deliver training to dozens of workers simultaneously. This is perfect for general safety training as well as refresher training on key topics. With minimal investment, a company can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to plan, organize, and complete safety training. This electronic approach also means you can say goodbye to paper sign-in sheets. At the start of a training session, the click- ers are handed to each employee and with the push of a button, their activity for that session is automatically synced to their em- ployee record. This includes training attendance, completion, and verifying they answered knowledge check questions. If a particular individual is struggling, a facilitator will see this and can schedule
more direct training with that individual.
By harnessing the power of technology to promote collabora-
tion, communication, and shared learning experiences, companies can empower their workforce to achieve new levels of safety ex- cellence and operational efficiency. As the industry continues to embrace innovation, integrating these training technologies and formats into existing training frameworks will be instrumental in building resilient, high-performing teams capable of meeting the challenges of modern manufacturing facilities head-on.
Holly Mockus is the Director of Content & Industry Strategy for Intertek Alchemy. With over more than years of manufacturing in- dustry experience, Holly helps steer the courses included in Intertek Alchemy’s training library. Holly is passionate about the importance of providing high-quality training tor frontline workers.
www.ohsonline.com
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