5 Types of Workplace Safety and Security Training You Need

Does your business need workplace safety training? The answer is probably yes, but what type of safety training should you hold? The answer includes both common training options and ones tailored to your particular needs. Here are five training types you may want to consider.
1. First Aid and Health
Are employees and the company itself prepared for an accident or health emergency? First aid and CPR training is a good place for any business to start, as these are common and easy to organize. Some employees may be willing to get a certification or take annual refresher classes to be further prepared.
If you have particular health and safety concerns, like exposure to hazardous chemicals in the manufacturing process, add specific emergency training to focus on accidents with these.
2. Equipment Safety and Use
Every workplace has equipment that could be dangerous. These dangers can be obvious or they may be subtle. Start by assessing what is on your site and how it might cause accidents or be misused.
Obviously, your company would want to ensure that anyone who works directly with things like industrial equipment, forklifts, and hazardous materials is trained in its proper use. However, even unrelated employees who work around these items may also benefit from safety training in how to avoid dangerous situations or what to do in an emergency.
3. Security in the Workplace
Work with a security service in your area to determine what security risks are most likely at your company. These may include common risks like potential break-ins and theft, intruders and trespassers, and even violent individuals who enter the site.
But your site also has its own risks. Is the parking lot often dark when employees leave after working late? The company may discuss specific ways to reduce risk, such as using the buddy system to leave at night or boosting personal protective behaviors. And some individuals or departments, like departments who work with company or trade secrets, may need targeted security training sessions.
4. Fire Safety
Every employer should have a fire safety and response plan. But your employees must also know and be able to use the plan for it to be effective.
Fire safety training begins with learning to recognize fire hazards and prevent them. It should also help everyone know how to use equipment like extinguishers and blankets, where are the fire exit routes around their work stations, and where to evacuate to. Finally, include regular company drills to practice these steps and reassessments as your work site changes over the years.
5. Cyber Security Issues
Physical security is only half of the puzzle for modern companies. You must also keep your digital work areas safe from hacking, data theft, identity fraud, and scams. This is another area of training that should be personalized to your way of doing business.
If you have remote or on-the-road employees, you may need to discuss how to physically secure mobile devices, why to avoid personal use, and what the dangers of public connections are. On the other hand, if your employees work with a lot of sensitive data, the company may do well to focus on how to protect data in accord with government regulations like HIPAA or GLBA.
Not sure how to get started improving the safety and security of your business? Begin by consulting with a security service in your area who offers workplace training. All State Security 1 can help. We offer a variety of security and safety programs, including training, to help your company. Call today to make an appointment and start making a plan to fully secure your property and your employees.