Online safety training programs are in huge demand for training employees. eLearning courses are one of the most effective ways to train safety in the workplace. By combining various interactive activities, they touch on multiple learning styles. In turn, this boosts retention and increases the effectiveness of the training. To give you some online safety training ideas, this article outlined a few common steps your business should take to run an effective employee safety training program online.
Table of Contents
- Step 1 for online safety training programs: Choose a training format
- Step 2 for online safety training programs: Assemble a training program
- Step 3 for online safety training programs: Prepare training content
- Step 4 for online safety training programs: Measure meaningful engagement metrics
- Infographics
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are online safety training programs?
- Which course is best for a safety officer?
- What is the best safety qualification?
Step 1 for online safety training programs: Choose a training format
Conventional employee safety and health training was typically carried out in person. Despite being a familiar training model, many organizations have recently moved away from this training approach due to its lack of flexibility and high costs.
On the other hand, training, usually comprised of online courses, offers organizations a fully flexible training approach. Employees can access courses on any device, and at any time they want to. In turn, they are more likely to take training. While there is an initial investment in eLearning tools, digital safety training is a cost-effective way to roll out training to workers. As eLearning touches on different learning styles, there is better engagement and high knowledge transfer.
Organizations can also opt for blended training. Blended training combines instructor-led training with online learning activities. Employees can get accustomed to online learning with the added security of knowing an instructor is on hand if needed. It could blend online tutorials with an in-person demonstration for optimal training results.
For example, a blended training program may work best when training on the safe use of machinery. Go for the training format that is best suited for your target audience.
Step 2 for online safety training programs: Assemble a training program
At this stage, we recommend you review existing safety training in the workplace materials to create an online training program. Consult with the SMEs in your organization to develop a list of safety training topics you want to teach your employees. Ensure your training meets all industry and national regulations. Outline the objectives to cover in the online training program and develop an activity to practice each module to maintain employee engagement. You can use role-plays, interactive image-based activities, and interactive assessments. You can also provide a certificate of course completion to suggest that the online safety training courses have been completed.
Step 3 for online safety training programs: Prepare training content
Now is the time to choose whether your organization will buy a pre-made Off-the-shelf course or create its own unique online safety training module. Many organizations face this decision when coming up with workplace safety training. On the one hand, buying an Off-the-shelf course can save businesses time. On the other hand, the topics covered in this course are not tailored to the organization. This issue can be catered to by looking into customizing or updating the content.
If your organization has decided to create its own health and safety training content, it is time to begin doing this. Getting started may seem daunting, but this will allow you to build online courses with interactive activities, videos, and quizzes. You can prepare a role-play to help staff learn how to correctly (and safely) collect customer data over the phone. It allows employees to practice and master scripts safely without the risk of potential data breaches or slip-ups. As a result, workers gain confidence in handling customer data risk-free.
Safety training videos are also a highly visual and engaging way to train on employee safety. Videos can be used as stand-alone learning content or added to other employee safety courses. Games are a great way to engage learners. This method is often referred to as gamification. Depending on your subject matter and the demographic of your learners, you can decide where you go to create online safety training games. Simulations can also be a form of gaming. You can present learners with a scenario and provide several possible response options. Have them discuss the situation in a forum, then vote on the response they most support.
Step 4 for online safety training programs: Measure meaningful engagement metrics
As learners access the online safety training course, track their progress and engagement in the course in the analytics dashboard of your LMS. After they have completed the course, request feedback on where the course needs improvement. They may require more training on a particular topic you may have overlooked or where you gave minimal instruction. Obtaining feedback lets you perfect the online program for future training.
If any technical glitches pop up during the training module, notify the technology team members to rectify those. Pay attention as well to the overall design of the program. Are you getting the content customized and getting it white-labelled by incorporating your company’s branding and design? Are you doing everything in your power to create a seamless experience? Now is the time to check and ensure your online safety training course presents a professional image and is easy to comprehend and navigate.
After your first run through the steps outlined in this article for creating an online safety training module, it will become easier to build future courses. Just keep your target learners in mind, what is important to them and how to best keep them engaged. As a result of helping learners reach their training goals, you can also achieve your business goals.
Infographics
Ready to elevate your workplace safety training programs?
Explore our comprehensive range of online safety courses today and empower your employees with the knowledge they need to stay safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are online safety training programs?
Online safety training refers to the use of digital resources and eLearning platforms to provide safety and health training to employees or individuals. It allows learners to access safety courses and materials on various devices at their convenience, enhancing flexibility and engagement.
Which course is best for a safety officer?
The choice of the best course for a safety officer depends on their specific job role, industry, and career goals. Common courses for safety officers include Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) courses, National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) certifications, and courses related to specific safety topics like construction safety, industrial safety, or environmental safety.
What is the best safety qualification?
The best qualification for you will depend on your career path and the specific safety responsibilities you have or intend to pursue. It is advisable to research and choose a qualification that aligns with your goals and industry demands.