The Benefits of Occupational Health and Safety Training Programs

Posted by Dulce Morris on November 14th, 2016

The Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations (85 of 1993) requires employers to provide occupational health and safety training  to employees who face specific risks in the workplace. The training provided should inform employees of the risks involved, precautionary measures needed (such as PPE), and safe working procedures.

Additionally, the Act requires various individuals appointed in terms of the Regulations to be given adequate training. Such individuals include health and safety representatives, risk assessors, incident investigators, supervisors, fire team members etc.

But what are the benefits of Occupational Health and Safety Training Programs?

1. Legal Compliance

First and most we need to mention legal compliance. The Occupational Health and Safety is Act is largely self-regulatory, meaning that the onus is on the employer to comply. The fact is that most employersand employees are not aware of which regulations apply to them, or how to achieve legal compliance. Basic safety training can therefore help prevent contraventions, which could lead to fines, disruptions to production, and even prosecution in the event of injuries or death due to workplace fatalities.

2. Increased productivity

Occupational Health and Safety training programmes focus on risk assessments and safe working procedures. This contributes to a safer working environment for those concerned. In almost all cases, a safe work environment improves work flow and reduces incidents which result in production delays. Additionally, accident prevention training programmes also improve staff welfare, meaning less time spent away from work due to work related illness and injuries.

3. Improved loss control

All companies should be concerned with loss control. Workplace incidents and accidents cost business in South Africa millions of Rands each day. Some of these costs include medical expenses, increased insurance fees, damage to property, equipment and stock, production delays, cost of hiring replacements etc. Occupational Health and safety training therefore has obvious benefits in helping to control and even eliminate such losses.

4. Staff upliftment

An important benefit of occupational health and safety training is staff upliftment. There is a direct link between staff morale and productivity. If employees are expected to work in poor and/or hazardous conditions, it is unlikely they will take pride on their work, or have a positive attitude, especially when it comes to working safely. On the other hand, if the employer is seen taking an active role in improving workplace conditions and staff health and welfare, this will no doubt motivate employees to improve their workplace performance.

As can be seen from the above, there are several benefits to occupational health and safety training. Whilst often viewed as an unnecessary expense, training employees can assist companies in several tangible ways.

The National Occupational Health and Safety Consultancy (NOSHC) offers a wide range of occupational health and safety training solutions to industry. Please feel free to visit our website at www.safetytraining.co.za for more information or call 0861 111 232 for a free quote.