121 Introduction to Safety Training
Glossary
A
- Active Learning. An instructional approach that engages students in the learning process through activities and discussions rather than passive listening, enhancing comprehension and retention.
- Active Listening. A communication skill involving fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said during an interaction, vital for effective learning and interpersonal communication.
- ADDIE Instructional Design. A systematic instructional design framework consisting of five phases: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation, used to create effective training programs.
- Adaptive Learning. An educational method using technology to adapt content delivery based on learners’ performance and engagement, creating a personalized learning experience.
- Adult Learning Theory. A framework for understanding how adults learn, emphasizing self-direction, relevance to work, and experiential learning. This theory often informs the design of OSHA safety training programs to ensure engagement and retention.
- Apprentice. An individual who learns a trade or profession through hands-on experience, often under the guidance of a skilled mentor or instructor.
- Assessment. The process of measuring a learner’s knowledge, skills, or competency after training to evaluate effectiveness and identify any areas needing improvement.
- Assimilation. The process through which a learner integrates new knowledge into their existing knowledge base, making connections to better understand and retain information.
B
- Benchmarking. A method of comparing an organization’s safety practices or training results with industry standards or best practices to identify improvement areas.
- Behavior-Based Safety (BBS). A safety approach focusing on worker behavior as a key factor in preventing accidents, using observation and feedback to encourage safe actions and reduce risks.
- Bloom's Taxonomy. A hierarchical classification of learning objectives, from basic to advanced: Knowledge, Comprehension, Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and Evaluation, used to guide instructional design.
- Blended Learning. A training approach combining face-to-face instruction with online learning components to offer flexibility and enhanced engagement.
- Buzz Group. A small group discussion format where learners engage in focused, short conversations to explore specific topics, commonly used to increase participation and stimulate ideas.
C
- Case Study. A teaching method that presents real-life or hypothetical scenarios, allowing learners to analyze, discuss, and apply problem-solving skills in context.
- Certification. Official documentation or credentials provided upon completion of a course, training, or examination process that verifies an individual’s knowledge or skills in a particular area. Certification ensures that the holder meets specific standards and is qualified to perform certain tasks, often necessary for complying with OSHA safety requirements.
- Classroom Training. Traditional in-person instruction delivered in a physical location where learners can directly interact with the instructor and peers.
- Coaching. A developmental approach where an experienced individual provides guidance, feedback, and support to improve the skills and performance of another person.
- Close-Ended Question. A question format that limits responses to specific options, such as “yes” or “no,” used to quickly assess understanding or obtain straightforward answers.
- Competency-Based Learning. An instructional approach focusing on mastery of specific skills or knowledge, allowing learners to progress at their own pace once competencies are demonstrated.
- Competent Person. As defined by OSHA, a competent person is an individual who has both the authority and the capability to identify hazards and take immediate corrective measures to eliminate them. This person is typically trained in recognizing risks specific to a job site and is responsible for ensuring safety measures are in place and adhered to.
- Computer-Based Training (CBT). Training delivered through a computer or software program, often allowing self-paced learning with interactive elements like quizzes and simulations.
- Compliance Training. Mandatory training programs required to ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, or organizational policies, such as safety or anti-harassment training.
- Continuous Improvement. A philosophy that encourages ongoing evaluation and enhancement of processes, practices, and performance, often applied to training and organizational development.
- Courseware. Instructional materials or software designed for use in training programs, often including a mix of text, images, videos, and assessments.
- Criteria. Standards or benchmarks used to measure the success or performance of training outcomes, typically used in evaluations and assessments.
- Credentials. Documents or certifications that validate a person’s qualifications, skills, or training in a particular field, especially in safety practices. Credentials can include degrees, certifications, licenses, or other documented proof of expertise or compliance with safety standards.
D
- Delivery. The method or approach used to provide training content, such as in-person, online, or hybrid models, affecting the accessibility and effectiveness of training.
- Essay Question. An open-ended assessment question that requires a detailed written response, allowing learners to demonstrate depth of understanding and critical thinking.
- Demonstration. A method of instruction where the trainer shows a skill, technique, or task to the learner. Demonstrations are commonly used in safety training to provide a clear visual example of safe procedures or proper equipment handling, helping trainees to understand and replicate the process.
E
- E-Learning. Education delivered through electronic means, often over the internet, allowing learners to access materials anytime, anywhere.
- Emotional Intelligence. The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one's emotions and effectively interact with others; a skill often enhanced through interpersonal skills training.
- Evaluation. The assessment process used to determine the effectiveness of training programs, safety protocols, or an individual’s skills. Evaluation helps organizations measure performance against established goals, ensuring compliance with safety standards and identifying areas for improvement.
F
- Facilitation. The process of guiding a group or training session to ensure effective participation and engagement, typically used in active or discussion-based learning.
- Facilitator. An individual who guides a training session or discussion, helping participants understand and apply new information. In OSHA training, facilitators lead exercises, discussions, and activities to promote learning.
- Feedback. Information provided to trainees regarding their performance during or after training. Effective feedback helps reinforce correct practices and corrects unsafe behaviors.
- Flipchart. A large paper display used by trainers to illustrate points, take notes, or engage participants in interactive brainstorming.
G
- Goal. A specific, desired outcome that an organization or training program works to achieve, such as reducing workplace injuries or achieving a high level of safety compliance. Goals provide direction and purpose, guiding the development of training and safety programs to meet OSHA standards.
H
- Hazard Communication (HazCom). OSHA-mandated program ensuring that information about chemical hazards and protective measures is provided to workers. HazCom training helps workers understand labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and safe handling procedures.
- Hybrid Learning. A mix of in-person and online instruction, allowing flexibility while providing some face-to-face interaction for a balanced learning experience.
I
- Icebreaker Activity. A brief, interactive exercise designed to warm up participants and encourage engagement, often used at the beginning of a training session.
- Instructor-Led Training (ILT). Traditional training where an instructor directly leads participants through a structured session, often in a classroom setting.
- Instruction. Detailed guidance or teaching provided to ensure understanding and correct execution of tasks, procedures, or safety practices. Instruction in OSHA training involves clear, direct communication of safety procedures to promote a safe workplace environment.
- Interpersonal Skills. Abilities that facilitate effective communication and relationships with others, such as teamwork, empathy, and active listening, often developed in training.
J
- JITL (Just-in-Time Learning). A training approach that provides learners with relevant knowledge or skills precisely when needed, often used in dynamic workplaces.
- Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A systematic process that examines a job’s tasks to identify potential hazards and establish safe procedures. JHA is essential in training to help workers understand risks and practice safe methods.
K
- Kirkpatrick Model. A training evaluation model with four levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results, used to assess the effectiveness of training programs.
- Knowledge Check. Short assessments or quizzes used throughout a training program to reinforce learning and verify understanding of key concepts.
- Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). A framework for defining the essential qualities needed to perform a job, often used in job analysis and competency-based training design.
L
- Learning Environment. The physical or virtual setting in which learning occurs, including elements such as technology, furniture, and organizational culture that support effective training.
- Learning Management System (LMS). A digital platform used to manage and deliver educational content, track learner progress, and assess performance in training programs. LMS tools are widely used for OSHA safety training, enabling organizations to efficiently monitor compliance and provide accessible, structured learning resources.
- Learning Styles. Individual preferences in receiving and processing information, often categorized into VAK: Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic learning styles.
M
- Metacognition. Awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes, aiding in planning, monitoring, and evaluating one’s learning.
- Microlearning. A training approach that delivers content in short, focused segments, often online, making it easier to retain and apply the material in small, manageable doses.
- Mission. The purpose statement of an organization that outlines its core goals and values. For OSHA-related programs, the mission often focuses on maintaining a safe work environment, reducing risks, and safeguarding employee health.
- Multiple-Choice Question. A type of question that presents learners with several answer choices, requiring them to select the correct option, commonly used in quizzes and exams.
N
- Needs Assessment. A systematic approach to identifying gaps in skills, knowledge, or safety practices. A needs assessment evaluates current safety practices, identifies areas for improvement, and determines specific training requirements to enhance workplace safety and compliance.
O
- Objective. A specific, measurable milestone that supports the achievement of larger goals within a training or safety program. Objectives serve as benchmarks for training progress, defining what participants should know or be able to do by the end of the program.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A U.S. federal agency responsible for creating and enforcing regulations to ensure safe and healthy working conditions. OSHA establishes and enforces standards, provides training, and offers guidance to reduce workplace hazards and protect workers’ rights.
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act). A federal law enacted in 1970 to ensure safe working conditions by authorizing OSHA to enforce workplace safety standards. The OSH Act aims to reduce workplace hazards and implement health and safety programs across industries.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT). Training conducted at the workplace where employees learn practical skills and safety procedures directly on the job. OJT allows trainees to develop hands-on experience with tools, equipment, and processes under the guidance of an experienced trainer or supervisor.
- Online Training. Digital, remote learning that allows individuals to access training modules, safety courses, and other educational materials via the internet. Online training can be an efficient way to deliver OSHA safety training to employees in various locations.
- Open-Ended Question. A question format allowing learners to respond freely and provide a detailed answer, often used to encourage critical thinking and discussion.
P
- Pedagogy. The method and practice of teaching, especially as an academic subject or theoretical concept, guiding instructional approaches and learner engagement.
- Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Cycle. A continuous improvement methodology used to test and refine processes, including safety protocols. The cycle involves planning a change, implementing it (Do), studying the outcomes, and making adjustments (Act), fostering ongoing improvements in safety and operations.
- Policy. A set of formal guidelines or rules adopted by an organization to govern conduct and decision-making. In the context of safety, policies outline the standards and procedures employees must follow to maintain a safe working environment.
- Positive Reinforcement. A technique used to encourage desired behavior by providing rewards or positive feedback, supporting motivation and engagement in training.
- Problem-Based Learning. A learner-centered method where participants learn by actively solving real-world problems, developing problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
- Practice. The act of repeatedly performing a task or procedure to master it. Practice is essential in OSHA training for ensuring that employees develop the skills needed to perform tasks safely and competently.
- Procedure. A documented series of steps required to complete a specific task safely and effectively. Procedures are integral to safety training, providing clear instructions that help prevent workplace accidents and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Process. A series of actions or steps designed to achieve a specific result, such as a safety audit or incident investigation. Processes often include multiple procedures and are critical for maintaining consistent safety standards in the workplace.
- Program. A coordinated set of activities designed to achieve specific objectives, such as improving workplace safety or providing comprehensive training to employees. Safety programs often include policies, procedures, and regular training sessions.
Q
- Qualified Person. An individual recognized as having the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to perform specific tasks safely and effectively. OSHA standards often require certain tasks to be performed by a qualified person to ensure competency and safety.
- Quiz. A short assessment tool used to gauge learners’ understanding of a particular topic, often comprising multiple-choice or true/false questions.
R
- Retraining. Training conducted periodically or as needed to reinforce or update knowledge and skills. OSHA often mandates retraining for compliance with new standards or following incidents.
- Role-Play. An instructional technique where learners act out scenarios to practice skills, enhance empathy, and understand different perspectives, commonly used in interpersonal skills training.
S
- Safety Management System (SMS). An organized framework that encompasses all aspects of workplace safety, including hazard identification, risk management, safety protocols, and employee training. SMS aims to improve safety performance and maintain compliance with OSHA regulations.
- Safety Program. A structured initiative focused on promoting workplace safety, including the development and implementation of policies, training, and safety audits. Safety programs are designed to prevent injuries, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote a culture of safety within an organization.
- SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model). A set of standards for e-learning content that ensures compatibility with LMS platforms, allowing for easy course sharing and tracking.
- Self-Directed Learning. A learning approach where individuals take initiative in diagnosing their learning needs, setting goals, and finding resources, fostering independence and self-motivation.
- Simulation Learning. A learning method that replicates real-world scenarios, allowing learners to practice skills in a safe environment, often using software or hands-on exercises.
- SMART Training. A goal-setting approach that ensures training objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Limited, enhancing focus and accountability.
- Synchronous Learning. Learning that takes place in real-time with an instructor and other learners, commonly through virtual classrooms or in-person sessions, fostering immediate interaction.
T
- Trainee. An individual participating in a training program to acquire new skills, knowledge, or competencies needed for safe and effective job performance. OSHA training programs often involve trainees who are new employees or those learning updated safety procedures.
- Trainer. An experienced and knowledgeable professional responsible for providing instruction, guidance, and assessment in a training program. Trainers ensure that trainees understand and can follow safety procedures required for OSHA compliance.
U
- Understudy. A training method in which a less experienced worker is paired with a mentor to learn through observation and participation. This on-the-job training approach is useful for learning complex safety procedures.
V
- Values. Fundamental beliefs or principles that guide an organization’s actions and policies. In safety programs, values often emphasize the importance of protecting workers’ health, compliance with regulations, and fostering a safe work culture.
- Virtual Classroom. A digital learning environment where instructors and learners interact online in real-time, simulating a traditional classroom setting.
- Vision. A forward-looking statement describing an organization’s long-term aspirations and goals, often related to maintaining a safe and productive workplace. A strong safety vision provides direction and motivation for continuous improvement in safety standards.
- Vocational Training. Education and training that equips individuals with specific skills for a particular trade or occupation, often hands-on and industry-focused.
W
- Web-Based Training. Training delivered over the internet, accessible from any device with an internet connection, making it flexible and widely available.
- Whole-Brain Learning. An instructional approach that engages both the logical left brain and the creative right brain to optimize learning and retention.
- Workplace Analysis. A comprehensive examination of the work environment to identify potential safety hazards. Workplace analysis is often part of safety audits or assessments to improve training and reduce risks.
X
- X-Ray Safety Training. Specialized training required for individuals working with or around X-ray equipment, covering radiation protection principles and equipment handling to minimize exposure.
Y
- Yield Training. Training designed to teach workers how to safely navigate shared spaces, such as warehouses or busy work areas, by yielding to other employees and equipment to reduce accidents.