The Importance of Integrated Safety Training
A fragmented and inconsistent approach to safety is inadequate in today’s dynamic, fast-paced work environments. The result can include increased risk to employees, disruptions in operations, damaged equipment, and exposure to compliance issues. Implementing an integrated and individualized approach to a safety training plan can help bring a consistent focus to safety management. It also stresses the important role everyone plays in creating and maintaining a safe work environment.
A robust training program is a vital component of an integrated and individualized approach to safety. It needs to go beyond simply checking a box on a safety checklist. The effectiveness of a forklift safety training program can vary significantly depending on how it is delivered and who within the organization is receiving it. Effective safety management requires extending training beyond forklift operators to include managers, supervisors, and pedestrians, making it readily accessible and convenient for everyone involved.
By focusing on both comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, training programs have the potential to encourage meaningful behavior changes that can enhance warehouse safety and form the foundation for a strong safety culture. Additionally, taking a top-down approach to forklift safety training is an effective method to increase organizational buy-in and effectiveness while helping to communicate the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach to safety.
Identifying Gaps in Your Training Program
Organizations need to continually evaluate safety programs to minimize gaps in training and ensure that everyone has an understanding of the role they play in your organization’s safety culture. To identify gaps in your training, you can evaluate your current program by asking the following questions:
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How effective is the training we’re delivering? Relying too much on classroom training and not providing hands-on training can limit the ability of operators to translate learning into practice. The classroom can provide the foundation, but new skills are best internalized when operators can get on a forklift and apply their new knowledge under the supervision of an experienced trainer.
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What is the frequency of safety training? The positive effects of safety training can erode over time. In the United States, OSHA states that training is required every three years, at a minimum, but more frequent refreshers can have positive effects. Establish a frequency for operator refresher courses and maintain discipline in ensuring established guidelines are followed.
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Are new operators receiving safety training in a timely manner? With a fluid job market, you will inevitably see some transition in your team of operators. It is essential to have a process to ensure new employees receive the training they need early in onboarding.
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Are supervisors trained to identify and correct unsafe operating practices? Positive reinforcement by supervisors can be one of the most effective methods for sustaining safety improvements initiated by formal training programs. However, supervisors must be appropriately trained to spot incorrect behavior and deliver positive and constructive feedback in a way that creates long-term behavioral changes.
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Are non-operators trained to work safely around forklifts? Forklift operators are not the only ones who could be involved in forklift-related accidents. Distracted or inattentive pedestrians can also put themselves in harm’s way. A comprehensive approach to training should include those team members who work around but do not operate forklifts.
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How is training being used to support the introduction of new technology? As you introduce new technologies into your operations, training plays a key role in accelerating adoption and addressing safety considerations associated with the new technology. Training may even help realize the benefits associated with the new technology.
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Do we have the resources and expertise to effectively manage training in-house? Effective training requires a high degree of expertise in equipment operating practices and how people learn—in addition to the time to plan, execute, and manage training programs. Even the best designed training programs can be derailed or lose effectiveness if internal resources don’t have the expertise, up-to-date knowledge, and time to prioritize it.
Leveraging Technology to Enhance Training Effectiveness
Several operator-assist technologies are available on today’s forklifts that can work passively or actively to reinforce training and guide operators to employ best practices consistently. Advanced sensors and software can adjust forklift performance parameters based on the load, task, location, and environment to promote safe, productive operations.
For instance, a system that uses Lidar sensors installed on the lift truck that scan for objects, pedestrians, and other forklifts to alert the operator of their presence and actively slow the vehicle. By incorporating these types of technologies into your operations, you can help reinforce the training your operators receive and ensure they maintain safe practices even in the face of distractions or challenging environments.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement by supervisors can be one of the most effective methods for sustaining safety improvements initiated by formal training programs. However, supervisors need to be trained to identify unsafe practices and deliver feedback in a way that creates long-term behavioral changes.
Forklift telematics systems can provide real-time feedback to operators that reinforces correct behavior and recognizes incorrect behavior. They can also give supervisors the performance data they need to showcase exemplary operators and their good choices while also identifying areas for additional training.
By combining technology-enabled monitoring and feedback with proactive, positive reinforcement from supervisors, you can create a culture of safety where operators feel empowered and motivated to maintain safe practices, even in the face of everyday pressures and distractions.
Comprehensive Training for All Involved
A comprehensive approach to training should include not only forklift operators but also those team members who work around but do not operate forklifts. This training helps pedestrians better understand the “do’s and don’ts” of working in environments where forklifts are present, reducing the risk of forklift-related accidents.
As you introduce new technologies into your operations, training plays a key role in accelerating adoption and addressing safety considerations associated with the new technology. Training may even help realize the benefits associated with the new technology. Listening and collaborating with front-line workers can help determine if additional adjustments to training programs regarding the new technology are required.
Conclusion: Fostering a Safety Culture through Integrated Training and Positive Reinforcement
Effective safety training is a fundamental element of the safety equation and is vital to building and maintaining a strong safety culture. By addressing potential gaps in your training program, leveraging technology to enhance training effectiveness, and promoting positive reinforcement from supervisors, you can create an environment where safe practices are the norm, not the exception.
Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and by empowering your entire workforce – from operators to pedestrians – with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to work safely, you can create a culture of safety that benefits your people, your operations, and your bottom line. For more information on forklift safety best practices and training resources, be sure to visit https://www.forkliftreviews.com/.
