Health and safety training is an essential component of any workplace safety program, but it can be especially challenging in Bangladesh. Fortunately, there are several tried-and-true practices that can help organizations enhance the effectiveness of health and safety training so they can foster a safe and healthy workplace.
Involve Workers in Health and Safety Training
When it comes to health and safety training, it is essential for safety professionals to involve workers in the process. The best way to do this is by providing training that is interactive and engaging. Ask workers questions during sessions, use a variety of teaching methods such as role playing and hands-on activities, and make sure everyone has an opportunity to give their input. This will ensure that all employees are invested in the training and can put the knowledge they’ve learned into action.
Utilize Experiential Learning for Maximum Impact
Experiential learning is a type of hands-on learning that involves the learner personally engaging in the process. This leaves a more lasting impression on the learner and helps them to remember the knowledge they’ve acquired better. Instead of simply lecturing about safety policies and procedures, give workers a chance to experience what it’s like through live simulation exercises or interactive scenarios. This can help workers apply the knowledge in real-life settings and encourages them to take an active role in their safety.
Engage All Staff Through Targeted Trainings.
To ensure that everyone plays their part in maintaining workplace safety and health, trainings must be tailored to meet the needs of different groups. This could include providing additional education for new hires or offering specialized sessions for more experienced staff. Managers should also be provided with guidance on how to implement safety procedures, as well as appropriate responses to any damaging accidents or incidents. By focusing specifically on the problems faced by each group and providing relevant information, workers can better understand their roles in achieving a safe workplace environment.
Build a Health & Safety Framework That Accommodates Culture and Language Variables
In Bangladesh, it’s important to consider cultural and linguistic variables when training on health and safety topics. Language barriers can make it difficult for employees who don’t understand English to comprehend the regulations or instructions, while cultural values may lead workers to prioritize family or community obligations over occupational safety. To address this issue, consider building a health & safety framework that accommodates the unique cultural and language needs of the workforce. This includes utilizing vernacular languages in trainings wherever possible and encouraging employee input when designing wellness initiatives.
5 Stimulate Employee Participation with Incentives and Rewards Systems
Incentives and rewards systems motivate employees to engage with safety protocols and strive for excellence in health and safety. Consider offering tangible incentives such as extra paid time off or additional member benefits for workers who meet or exceed health and safety requirements. You can also reward employees for submitting suggestions or feedback on existing health & safety policies, or recognize exemplary performance related to the organization’s health & safety plans. It’s important to recognize great work right away, as timely rewards encourage further effort.
