Changing the parameters of occupational safety and health training and education programs - using small group activities to identify job hazards and develop action plans

A recent CDC/NIOSH report indicates that training as a lone intervention is not effective in reducing injuries and illnesses in the workplace. However, training can be a strong impetus to motivate labor and management leaders to identify and control job hazards, and develop more comprehensive safety programs. Designing participatory training programs for workers that include small group activities and action planning increases the likelihood that post-training action will occur. Typical small group activities include: hazard identification, effects on workers and co-workers, and intervention strategies. We have found that including an action planning activity is critical to increasing the likelihood that further activity will occur. In addition to the training topic, emphasis is given to intervention types and strategic planning including specific goals, timetables, and the responsible individual(s). These action plans can then be used by H&S Committees to help guide their work. These methods have been used to address a number of hazards, including workplace violence and stress. Worksite-specific examples will be provided.