Precast Inc. - May/June 2008 - (Page 24) the instructor to obtain materials. The employer must find an instructor based on instructor credentials, knowledge and skill level. The instructor may be dynamic or may be a “snoozer” that issues a certification card from a sponsoring agency simply because they’re certified by that agency. For this reason, many employers assign one of their own employees to become credentialed so training can be done at their convenience, with their own quality standards in place, at a cost of materials only. Although many employers prefer to use certified instructors only, numerous independent instructors provide classes with their own designed course completion cards based on nationally recognized standards. They become instructors based on their own merits, experience and other certifications (such as Emergency Medical Technician) or others that show knowledge (or assume knowledge) of the subject. It is for these reasons that the quality of instruction is emphasized. Good quality instruction translates into competent testing and performance of those being certified in first aid. Many noncertified instructors have a far greater success rate and better quality course offerings than those who are technically certified. As long as the instructor is aware of and meets the industry requirements for which they’re providing first aid training, the opportunities for compliance are well within the reach of employers. Issues such as cost, quality and materials vary greatly among instructors, and going through a certifying agency is no guarantee the employer will get what it wants in these areas. If an employer does a little homework, there could easily be qualified instructors within the community that will provide the level of skills, knowledge and ability necessary to conduct a quality course. With a quality instructor, the employer gains direct and indirect benefits far greater than the cost of conducting the training to meet compliance requirements. Having employees certified in first aid can offer regulatory relief, greater safety awareness in the workplace, better responses during emergencies and monetary discounts from insurance providers. What is required in first aid training depends on which regulatory agency your work site is under. The times, subjects and quality in delivery all vary, so as an employer, you’ll get your biggest bang for your training buck if you spend a little time up front doing your homework. BOOTH 540 24 MAY/JUNE 2008 | PRECAST INC. http://www.cresset.com http://www.cresset.com http://www.ecodepotsales.com
For optimal viewing of this digital publication, please enable JavaScript and then refresh the page. If you would like to try to load the digital publication without using Flash Player detection, please click here.