How can I make hazmat training easier?

Every week customers call and ask why it is so hard to train hazmat. Sometimes it relates to the training materials; other times it is simply trying to help drivers understand their responsibilities. It can be a real challenge and a real chore. Let’s see if we can find some answers.

Keep it simple

Talk with drivers; make sure you are on the same page, as far as transporting hazmat and their job functions are concerned. Usually drivers do everything right, the way they are supposed to, but don’t know how to describe the hazmat functions they perform. When training, make sure the hazmat terminology (marking, labeling, placarding, and so on) you are using is what the drivers use and that they understand it. Stress the importance of doing job functions correctly, as well as being able to communicate their knowledge on the road.

Ask questions

Most importantly, don’t forget to ask questions. Don’t get stuck in a rut lecturing. If you get the drivers involved in the training process, they will retain more and remember it longer. Have drivers describe day-to-day scenarios and problems they encounter on the road. Get everyone to provide input during discussions; determine drivers that may require additional training.  
 
Training is every day
 
That may be an exaggeration, but training only when required may result in problems down the road. Human error has been identified as a contributing factor in hazmat incidents and accidents. Don’t let that happen to you. Be sure to talk with drivers periodically to identify areas of concern. Evaluate your program to make sure it is not only meeting the requirements, but is effective, too!

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J. J. Keller's Hazmat Training Made Easier For All Employees provides tools for assessing your general awareness, function-specific, and safety training needs, all in one convenient program. It introduces employees to the basic hazmat concepts and terminology they need to know. Topics covered include the Hazardous Materials Table, shipping papers, marking, labeling, placarding, emergency response info, incident reporting, training requirements, loading and unloading, segregation of hazmat, definitions, and abbreviations.

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