Tips for Procuring Occupational Safety and Health Training

Introduction

Occupational health and safety training is essential for promoting a safe, healthy, and legally compliant workplace. It equips staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent accidents, reduce health risks, and respond appropriately to workplace hazards.

Under Sections 8, 9, and 10 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers have a legal obligation to provide appropriate instruction, training, and supervision to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of their employees at work.

Key requirements include:

• Tailored training: Training must be relevant to the specific risks and operational needs of the workplace.
• Accessible delivery: Training must be delivered in a form, manner, and language that is clearly understood by employees.
• No loss of earnings: Employees are entitled to receive such training during paid working hours, without any loss of earnings.

Selecting Training Provider/Trainer

The following are key points to consider when selecting a training provider /trainer.

• Does the training provider have proven credentials?
• Who accredits their courses?
  • Are their courses accredited by professional bodies?
  • Are their courses accredited by academic institutions?
• Does the trainer have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to be a trainer?
  • Are the trainers certified or licensed, and by whom?
  • Are trainers’ industry certifications/qualifications disclosed?
  • Have trainers’ professional membership in relevant industry bodies?
  • Do trainers have adequate practical experience in area?
  • Do trainers have sector-specific knowledge? Do trainers know your industry?
• Does the training provider offer post training support (if required)?

Training Course Considerations

The following are key points to consider when selecting a training course for your employees.

• Is the course accredited by a relevant professional body or academic institution?
• What is the delivery format? For example, in person, virtual or blended?
• Is the training style/format appropriate for the topic? For example, does it include a mix of lectures, case studies and hands-on practice (as required)?
• What is the duration of training? Is it sufficient to cover the learner’s learning needs?
• What is the maximum class size?
• What language is the training delivered in? Can training be delivered in languages other than English (if the trainees first language is not English)?
• Can the training accommodate any potential learner fitness to participate issues or specific learning requirements?
• How does the training meet legal/legislative requirements?
  • Training syllabus?
  • What topics does the training cover?
• Is the training aligned with national/industry specific standards?
• Does the training fulfil mandatory certification or continuing professional development (CPD) requirements?
• Training content
  • Is the training tailored to the required role and industry?
  • Does the training reflect the actual hazards and complexity of the job?
  • Is training content tailored to specific learner needs or requirements?
  • What theoretical topic does the training cover?
  • Does the training cover relevant practical topics and exercises?
  • What practical techniques are demonstrated during the training?
  • What practical techniques are practiced by learners during the training?
• Training materials, equipment, and environment
  • Are training materials provided?
  • How do trainees access courseware?
  • What training equipment is provided/used during the training?
  • Does the equipment used reflect that used by your employees in their workplace?
  • Is the training equipment fully serviced and in full working order?
  • Is the training facility/environment fit for purpose?
• What is the assessment methodology?
• Are certificates of attendance provided?
• Are certificates of completion or awards provided?
• Are certificates of completion or awards recognized by relevant authorities or insurers?