The Safe On-the-Job Training (OJT) Model
Step 6: Trainer/supervisor validates the training
After the conclusion of the OJT session, the trainer, or better yet, the supervisor should observe the employee applying what they've learned in the actual work environment.
Doing so results in strong documentation that helps to legally protect both the employee being trained and the employer.
Step 7: Trainer/supervisor documents the training
The well-known OSHA adage, "if it isn't in writing, it didn't get done," is true for any kind of safety training.
Training Tip
To prove the employee has the knowledge and skills to do a job safely, have the employee teach you how to do the job. If the employee can effectively train you, then he or she is qualified and you can sign them off. If they can't, you should not qualify them. Instead, it's time for some retraining.
By the way, when OSHA inspects, the compliance officer may ask employees about the job they are doing. The employees won't be able to hide their ignorance and it won't take long for the compliance officer to determine if the employee is qualified to do the job.
Training Documentation
For OJT safety training, documentation should be more than a mere attendance sheet: it should be a formal "certification."
If the employer gives OSHA detailed safety training documentation in the form of written certifications, OSHA will be impressed, and this "first impression" can go a long way in making the rest of an OSHA inspection a more pleasant experience (if that is possible).
The trainee certifies:
- training was accomplished
- questions were answered
- opportunities for practice were provided
- accountabilities understood
- intent to comply
The instructor certifies the trainee has been evaluated and:
- demonstrated adequate knowledge
- developed the skills to complete the procedures
See this sample training certification.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-3. What would be the best training documentation for handling hazardous chemicals training?
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