Finding High Quality Safety Training Providers

When it comes to workplace safety, there's no room for compromise. That's why it's crucial for organizations to provide high-quality safety training to their employees. But with so many safety training providers out there, how can you determine which one will meet your standards?

That's where the ANSI Z490.1 OSH training standard comes in. This nationally recognized standard provides guidance on the development and implementation of effective occupational safety and health training programs. In this article, we'll take a look at the importance of finding high-quality safety training providers that meet the ANSI Z490.1 standard and how it can benefit your organization.

What is the ANSI/ASSP Z490.1 OSH Training Standard?

The ANSI/ASSP Z490.1 OSH Training Standard is a set of guidelines designed to help organizations develop and implement high-quality safety and health training programs. The standard outlines the key elements of a comprehensive training program, including training program design, development, delivery, and evaluation. It also provides guidance on selecting trainers and developing training materials, as well as addressing the needs of diverse learners.

By collaborating with training providers that utilize this standard, organizations can ensure that their employees receive high-quality, consistent training that meets or exceeds industry best practices.

What is the ANSI/ASSP Z490.2 Training Standard?

The ANSI/ASSP Z490.2 Training Standard was published as a companion standard to the ANSI/ASSP Z490.1. It provides guidance on the development and implementation of virtual training programs – or in other words, e-learning programs for health and safety.

The standard outlines the key elements of effective virtual training programs, including instructional design, delivery methods, and technology requirements. By following this standard, organizations can ensure that their virtual training programs are effective, engaging, and meet the needs of diverse learners. This can help organizations save time and money by reducing the need for in-person training, while still providing high-quality training that meets or exceeds industry best practices.

Why should employers follow the ANSI Z490.1 Training Standard?

Employers have a responsibility to ensure the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. One way to meet this obligation is by providing effective occupational safety and health (OSH) training. However, not all safety training providers are created equal. To ensure that employees receive high-quality training that meets or exceeds industry best practices, employers should work with a safety training provider that follows the ANSI Z490.1 OSH Training Standard. Here's why:

1. Ensures high-quality safety training

The ANSI Z490.1 OSH Training Standard provides guidance on the development and implementation of effective OSH training programs. By working with a safety training provider that follows this standard, employers can be confident that their employees are receiving training that meets or exceeds the industry best practices. This can help prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, and ultimately save lives.

2. Helps organizations meet legal requirements and industry best practices

Many states and federal agencies have regulations that require employers to provide safety training to their employees. By working with a safety training provider that follows the ANSI Z490.1 standard, employers can ensure that they are meeting these legal requirements. Additionally, following the standard can help organizations meet industry best practices, which can improve their reputation and help attract and retain employees.

3. Improves worker safety and health outcomes

Effective safety training can help prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. By working with a safety training provider that follows the ANSI Z490.1 standard, employers can be confident that their employees are receiving training that is designed to improve safety and health outcomes. This can help reduce workers' compensation costs, absenteeism, and turnover, which can improve organizational performance.

4. Enhances organizational performance and productivity

When employees are trained in safety best practices, they are more likely to work efficiently and effectively. Effective safety training can also help employees feel more engaged and valued, which can improve morale, productivity, and employee retention. Additionally, following the ANSI Z490.1 standard can improve organizational performance by reducing the number of workplace injuries and illnesses, helping to improve cost savings and total profitability.

5. Demonstrates commitment to safety and health to stakeholders

Following the ANSI Z490.1 OSH Training Standard demonstrates a commitment to safety and health to employees, customers, and other stakeholders. It can improve an organization's reputation and help attract and retain customers and employees who value safety and health.

How to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Safety Training

Employers may find it useful to measure the impact that safety training programs can have on their businesses. Here are a few tips for business owners and managers looking to properly evaluate the effectiveness of employee safety training.

1. After implementing safety training, make note of your employees’ reaction. Their ongoing feedback will be crucial for the future success of your safety training.
2. Implement a measurable assessment of your employees’ health and safety knowledge. This could be a practical exercise, on the job test, or a simple survey.
3. Observe any change in behavior when it comes to your employees’ use of the health and safety protocol. Have they integrated the standard into their daily tasks?
4. Determine if the training program helped the company meet or exceed the performance objectives previously put in place.
5. Consult with a safety training expert in your industry. An experienced training provider will likely be able to offer insights into how you can better execute on your own training and safety practices.

Looking for a qualified safety training provider?

Great employers always place a priority on safety, but it can be difficult to do without the right help. This is why choosing to work with a safety training provider that follows the ANSI Z490.1 standard, can offer some much needed relief.

When you consult with a safety training provider that follows the ANSI Z490.1 standard, you can rest assured your employees’ safety will be governed under a nationally recognized protocol. At Riskill, safety is always a value. Feel free to reach out for more information on how you can improve your company’s health and safety practices.