Employers in Arizona are encouraged to review the OSHA standards when it comes to training employees. The reason is that OSHA recently had to reinforce the training requirement in its fullness. Training must end in mastery of the training material, and in light of this, to have employees undergo computer-based training is simply not enough.
Employers may be forgiven for thinking otherwise. After all, OSHA has training videos and computer-based training programs for sale on its website, and many private companies offer similar videos covering every OSHA topic. However, OSHA is clear that online training must be supplemented by hands-on training with a qualified trainer who can answer employees’ questions in a timely manner.
The presence of the trainer is crucial in helping employees retain the information imparted to them. The interactive and physical nature of the training is also beneficial as employees get to work with the actual tools and equipment that are found in the workplace. With a trainer, employees can more easily learn how to use tools, perform certain tasks and put on the right personal protective equipment.
If employees are being re-trained, then this sort of training gives them experience to refresh their skills. Above all, trainers who are present can better assess whether an employee has mastered the material.
Under workers’ compensation law, injured employees can receive benefits regardless of who was at fault. If it is discovered that inadequate training was at least partly to blame for an accident, then this might make the filing of the claim easier. Otherwise, employers may be able to deny the claim, saying that employees were negligent. Whatever the situation, victims may want legal representation. A lawyer may help mount an appeal and explain when victims are advised to settle.
