How can a supervisor best assess the effectiveness of safety training for workers?

Conducting follow-up discussions and observations provides a comprehensive approach to assess the effectiveness of safety training. This method allows supervisors to gather qualitative insights into how workers are applying what they learned in real-world situations. Observing workers as they perform their tasks enables the supervisor to identify any unsafe practices or gaps in knowledge that may not have been evident during training. Additionally, follow-up discussions create an opportunity to clarify any confusion, reinforce training concepts, and foster an environment where workers feel comfortable addressing safety concerns.

In contrast, while observing behavior during training sessions can provide insight into initial learning, it doesn't capture how those skills are applied post-training. Written tests can evaluate knowledge but often fail to measure practical application. Waiting for feedback after safety incidents can be reactive rather than proactive, as it does not allow for preventative measures to be put in place before an incident occurs. Overall, follow-up discussions and observations create a better alignment between training objectives and actual workplace practices.