Required curriculum for affected employee training is clear
According to the OSHA standard 1910.147, there are specific requirements that must be included in the affected employee training. The affected employees are to be trained on the purpose and use of the lockout/tagout procedures. They must also be instructed on the prohibition of attempting to restart or reenergize a piece of equipment while it is locked out. When there are tagout systems used on site, additional requirements are mandatory to be included into the affected employee’s training.
An effective training program goes beyond the basics
In addition to what OSHA requires in affected employee training, there are other tools and materials that should also be included to ensure that the training is as effective as possible.
One tool to incorporate into the training is video. Choose videos that deal with affected employee-related accidents, or accidents that could be avoided in general due to lockout/tagout. Be sure that these videos are not too lengthy, as it is crucial to keep the attention of the trainees during the videos.
Also, incorporate questions for discussion. This will get many people involved as the audience becomes more open to speak. The trainees will learn better from other people’s questions rather than just listening to a PowerPoint presentation.
Finally, include information regarding the energy sources and magnitudes of the energy sources that are present on-site. This will give trainees a better understanding of what they are actually dealing with, and how dangerous lockout/tagout is.
Know your audience and be mindful of what they may not know when it comes to lockout/tagout and safety
Affected employee trainings can be difficult to create and deliver. Know your audience and provide them with information that is useful to them. Do not simply give them the same presentation as the authorized employees receive. Include videos, discussion questions, and the additional information that is required by OSHA. Most importantly, drive the point home about not trying to restart a piece of equipment that is locked out. If the affected employee sees a piece of equipment that is locked out, they must stay far enough away from it until the maintenance is completed and the lockout is removed.
Need help? Our experienced safety services team has created and presented countless trainings over the years. If you would like assistance, visit our safety services webpage.
