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703 Introduction to OSH Training
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OSHA's Suggested Training Plan Core Elements

3. Instructors

Trainers must be competent.
  • Instructors should be considered competent based on previously documented experience in their instructional area, successful completion of a 'train-the-trainer' program relevant to the subjects they will teach, and an assessment of their instructional competence by the Training Director.
  • Instructors should maintain professional competency through continuing education, professional development programs, annual refresher courses, and yearly reviews by the Training Director.
  • The annual review conducted by the Training Director should include observing the instructor's delivery, discussing these observations with the trainer, and analyzing any evaluations of the instructor or class completed by students in the previous year.

4. Course Materials

Training courses and materials should be developed and updated as necessary to be consistent with the recognized principles of training development/instructional design. Training development should follow a systematic process that includes: a needs assessment, learning objectives, adult learning principles, course design, and evaluation.

A popular instructional design model is called "ADDIE." This stands for the five main steps in the ADDIE process: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. As the course creator works through the cycle, the training materials and content are developed step-by-step.

  • Analysis: Identify the learning needs and objectives.
  • Design: Plan the course structure and learning activities.
  • Development: Create the specific training materials and content.
  • Implementation: Deliver or present the course to learners.
  • Evaluation: Assess the course to determine its effectiveness and areas for improvement.

Each step is important for producing a well-organized and effective training program.

Training program managers and developers should do the following to ensure quality training course materials:

  • The Training Director should approve all course materials used by the training provider, ensuring they are reviewed and updated at least annually.
  • Materials and equipment should be properly maintained and kept in good working order. All written and audio-visual materials in the training curricula should undergo peer review by technically competent external reviewers or a standing advisory committee.
  • Reviewers should have expertise in relevant disciplines, such as occupational health, industrial hygiene and safety, chemical/environmental engineering, employee education, or emergency response. Additionally, at least one of the peer reviewers should be an employee with experience in the specific work activities targeted by the training.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-4. How often should course material be reviewed and updated?