Engaging and hands-on approaches to health and safety training have been shown to increase positive outcomes, as measured by reduced rates of illness, injury, and accidents in the workplace (Burke et al., 2006). Computer-based approaches to occupational health and safety training are able to accommodate this sort of active participation through on-going feedback and interactive content (Burke et al., 2006). Some examples of engaging tools include webinars, video tutorials, games, and virtual reality software.
Balancing distance learning with hands-on components allows learners to benefit from a vast collection of knowledge and resources online, while also developing the practical skills necessary to thrive in their vocational sector. In cases where it is not ideal or feasible for such training to take place within traditional educational institutions, students may earn practical experience directly within the workplace. This in-house approach to safety training is practiced throughout many Canadian companies (Media Awareness Network, 2010).
The following interview provides an interesting perspective on using technology in health and safety training. The identities of the individual and their employer are not disclosed for the sake of anonymity.
- What is your Position/Title?
I was a member and co-chair of the health and safety committee at (large beverage distribution company) for 20 years. A lot has changed for the better throughout that time.
- Why is health and safety training so important in your field of work?
Health and safety training is important in every workplace. At (unnamed company) we have a lot of power equipment, handle various liquids, deal with glass, conveyors, and we have workers driving trucks for long hours. There is a lot that could go wrong if we are not properly trained.
- Are there any technology-based components to your health and safety training? (online courses, webinars, games, virtual reality, etc.)
Yes, we as employees now have to do online training once a year on health and safety- about six to eight hours’ worth. Employees get the day off if they choose to do it from home. This presents a big problem in cases where employees give their password to somebody willing to do the training for them, in exchange for money. These employees won’t be properly trained.
- How effective do you believe technology-based safety training to be, in comparison to face-to-face to training?
I am not a fan of online training. I think that in-house, face-to-face training is more effective. You can act out workplace scenarios, and you know that everybody is going through the proper training.
- How do you see the future of health and safety training in your field? (Greater technological involvement, use of virtual reality, etc.)
This might be Union mentality but I believe it comes down to whatever is cheaper for Employers, because at the end of the day they do it because of legislation and liability.
Although we have discussed the ways in which technology strives to provide vocational workers with highly engaging and interactive health and safety training, there is still some debate regarding whether or not technology-based training is truly as effective as face-to-face learning in this particular field.
