"What courses should I train my employees on?" That is a question that is frequently thrown my way. Some companies use a broad brush stroke and give everyone the same content, no matter what their job function is. Others may choose to cover a random number of big picture topics and never pinpoint some of the specific training needs that they have. Do you ever second guess yourself with regards to your training plan?

One helpful tool that is probably not utilized enough is the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). 'But that's too much trouble," your management team whines. "That's just for high risk jobs." Sure, that's what they were originally designed for. But the fact is that conducting a JHA on each of your job functions can prove to be very beneficial. A basic, well thought through JHA can identify key hazards that you need to focus on.

Once you have identified the hazards, you may be able to actually eliminate some completely or possibly neutralize them with administrative controls. The one thing that you will always be able to do is identify the training needs of the job. You can then establish a training matrix for your employees and be confident that all of your bases are covered.

Getting all of those training issues addressed can be a challenging task. Scheduling time and resources to handle a wide variety of topics is quite taxing and employers often scratch their heads wondering, "Did I account for everyone?"

Fortunately, there are many new options which allow businesses to provide highly effective, just-in-time training. Online safety training delivery and management solutions (also known as eLearning), provide training that is engaging, consistent and measurable. Instead of shutting down assembly lines or paying additional overtime, employers can provide training that is flexible, self-paced and available anytime, anywhere from any Internet-connected computer. Best of all, every second your employees spend in training is documented for your peace of mind (and OSHA should they come calling).

You get the picture. JHA's can target your training needs. Your employees are depending on you to provide it. Online safety training tools can help make your training plan more convenient, effective and efficient.

Written by Shane Austin, CSP, Safety and Risk Management Specialist for PureSafety - leading provider of online safety training and risk management software solutions. Shane can be reached at 888.202.3016, Ext. 123 or via email at shane.austin@puresafety.com.