721 OSH Training Development

Formal Certification of Training

When safety training requires employees to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) in performing hazardous procedures or using safe practices, an attendance roster may not be legally sufficient to document the training.

Examples of when formal certification would be required include:

• Lockout/Tagout procedures – where employees must be trained and then evaluated for understanding and correct application.
• Confined space entry training – which requires demonstration of skills and understanding of entry permits and rescue procedures.
• Forklift operation (Powered Industrial Trucks) – OSHA requires a performance evaluation and written certification that includes the name of the operator, trainer, and evaluation date.
• Fall protection training – especially when working at heights, where employees must demonstrate how to use harnesses and tie-off systems properly.

Technical safety training like the examples above should include formal written certification that KSAs have been achieved. Certification of training usually involves issuing a certificate of competency or qualification. According to ANSI Z490.1, certification of training should include:

• trainee's name
• course title
• date, location and hours of instruction
• statement that the trainee has successfully completed the course
• name and address of training provider
• date periodic refresher training is due (if required) or expiration date
• unique trainee identification number
• the level of training or type of certificate awarded
• any other information required by regulation
• number of credits (CECs, CEUs, etc), if issued. Make sure employees have met all requirements for credits.

To make your documentation stronger, include the following information:

• trainee statement that he/she was provided opportunity to ask questions and perform procedures and practices.
• trainer statement that trainees, through testing, demonstrated adequate knowledge.
• trainer statement that measurement (testing) of knowledge and skills was conducted and that trainees met or exceeded required levels of performance
• trainee statement of intent to comply with the procedures, practices, policies, and rules.
• trainee statement of understanding that failure to comply may result in discipline
• list or description of the specific subject(s) being trained. Describe the safety procedures, practices, policies, rules addressed in training.
• list or description of the specific procedures practiced in the learning environment.
• certification - a place for trainee and trainer signatures

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