OHST Practice Exam

What is the primary reason for conducting safety training?

1. Improve skills

2. Behavior change

3. Keep the training department busy

4. Comply with federal law

The correct answer is: Behavior change

The primary reason for conducting safety training is to drive behavior change among employees. Effective safety training aims to modify employees' attitudes and actions towards safety practices in the workplace. By fostering a culture that prioritizes safety, organizations can reduce the likelihood of accidents and incidents, thereby protecting both employees and company assets. When employees understand the importance of safety protocols and feel empowered to adhere to them, they are more likely to engage in safe practices and contribute to a safer work environment overall. While improving skills and compliance with federal law are significant components of safety training, they serve as secondary benefits of the overarching goal of influencing behavior. A training program that solely seeks to occupy the training department's time does not serve the essential purpose of enhancing safety within the organization. In contrast, when safety training effectively changes employee behavior, it ultimately leads to better safety outcomes and demonstrates the value of such training programs.