714 Fall Protection Program

Model Training Strategy

The "show and tell" model for on-the-job training (OJT) has been, and is still, the best method for training specific fall-protection safety procedures. Measurement of knowledge, skills, and abilities occurs throughout the OJT process while keeping the employee safe from injury while learning.

1. Introduction. The instructor tells the trainee about the fall protection training emphasizing why it's important to properly use it whenever required. The instructor also asks questions and reviews company policies regarding employee accountability.
2. Instructor informs. Next, the instructor explains important fall protection topics and demonstrates how to properly use, maintain, and store fall protection. The instructor also stresses the natural consequences (the injury/illness) and system consequences (reward/discipline) related to performance. The trainee becomes familiar with using fall protection equipment and why it is important to use safe procedures.
3. Instructor shows. Think of this step as a test. In this step, roles are reversed: the trainee attempts to teach the instructor how to use the equipment. The instructor follows the trainee's instructions and asks "why" certain points are important. It's important to include this step especially if injury is possible. There is an opportunity for the instructor to discover if there were any misunderstandings while protecting the trainee from possible injury.
4. Trainee shows. Now it's the trainee's turn to perform. The trainee describes each step before performing it. If a step might expose the trainee to a serious hazard, the instructor may require employees to get permission prior to performing a hazardous step.
5. Evaluation. After the trainee successfully completes the procedure, the instructor evaluates employee performance in the training environment. After training, a supervisor or competent person will evaluate employee performance in the work environment.
6. Documentation. The trainer documents initial qualification and a supervisor or competent person documents full qualification. Use the sample certification to document the training. OSHA will love it!

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