Q: How does a computer-based training tool add value to a company's employee training program on workplace safety?

A: If the computer-based training tool is tailored to your operations, it enhances your employee training program by:

Providing consistency in the training of employees;

Reducing the work load of department managers and Human Resources, generally responsible for employee training;

Providing a standardize test that reflects information an employee should know and is directly relevant to their job responsibilities;

Providing more opportunity to schedule employee training sessions without disrupting production; and

Consolidating training records using on-board databases that automatically update employee profiles after completing each module.

A: No generic training program or video can solely provide the training necessary to comply with OSHA (or EPA) training requirements. The major rules on Hazard Communication, Lockout/Tagout, Emergency Response, Hazardous Waste and DOT HAZMAT all require training specific to an employee's job responsibilities.

ESM tailors its training tools to a particular industry sector. Our Hazard Communication module just doesn't cover how to read a label or MSDS, or general chemical hazards. It also shows the employee the chemicals, labels and MSDSs found in that industry sector, for example, printing and publishing.

A: Because our training products target a particular industry sector, it can provide more illustrative and relevant information to an employee. This significantly reduces, but does not eliminate, supplemental training to ensure that the employee has the informational tools to carry out their job responsibility within the context of OSHA or EPA requirements.

Use of our training products still require opportunities for an employee to ask questions and obtain feedback on how the information relates to their jobs. This can be done by: briefly talking with the employee after the training to ensure they understand it; providing a phone number for more information; or providing job-specific training by the employee's department manager.

A: Yes. OSHA and EPA allows training databases for recordkeeping. The database software should be able to track employees by: training module; date; and individual employee. Sign-up sheets, printed training certifications, digital signature pads, or written employee certifications are also acceptable.

A: Interactive computer-based training programs provide a valuable training tool. Such programs augment an company's comprehensive employee training program. Use of generic computer-based training and video programs are not sufficient to comply with OSHA, or for that matter EPA, training requirements.

Employees must be trained in their job-specific responsibilities and have an opportunity to ask questions. A knowledgeable person should be available after the training module or by phone to answer any questions.

You should take the time to read the OSHA policy letters on computer-based training. They will help you make an informed decision on whether computer-based training tools are right for your employee training program. Here are the OSHA website links:

11/22/94 The use of computer-based training to satisfy OSHA training requirements.

6/11/97 Appropriateness of computer-based interactive training progams to satisfy required OSHA training.

8/16/04 Acceptability of using computer-based (online) training for the HAZWOPER 40-hr classroom training.

10/11/94 The acceptability of a computer based, self-paced training program for use in meeting the refresher training requirements of the standard.

4/10/00 The use of electronic sigature pad to record sigantures for training certification.

A: Actually we offer a number of training solutions, all customized to your training needs using your server or ours. Custom secure programs can be developed to access your HR employee database. Please contact us for details!

A: Traintheprinter.com is owned and operated by ESM, LC - a leader in Environmental, Health and Safety Training! We can be reached at :