Learning in Their Language: Fall Protection Training for Non-English Speaking Workers
By Gus Strats – Summit Anchor Company, Inc. July 20th, 2022
Edited by – Keisha Winston
Did you know that non-English speaking window washers and maintenance workers at height must receive safety instructions in their language?
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, if an employee receives job instruction in a language other than English then that employee should also receive training and information in that same language. This means that if an employee’s supervisor is providing instructions day in, and day out in Spanish, for instance, then the fall protection training also must be conducted in Spanish.
(https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2010-04-28)
What does this mean for companies required to train
non-English speaking workers?
Providing fall protection training to non-English speaking workers can be a challenge. Employers may not have supervisors or trainers who can provide detailed safety and technical instructions in another language. And since different languages can require different thought patterns, it may be difficult to accurately convey terms and meaning even when the supervisor or manager can speak the other language. Additionally, translators who are skilled in both languages may have a tough time conveying technical terms and procedures. Still, employers must meet this OSHA standard for non-English speaking employees.
Mike Draper with Expert Safety Services instructing a group of Safety Managers with Hoar Construcuon on the safe use of rope descent systems (RDS) on a roof in Birmingham, Alabama on July 19th, 2022. — Photo by: Gus Strats
Why is it good to train workers in their own language?
To make it plain and simple, it’s good business. Employers should want all workers to understand safety measures. And workers in dangerous jobs should understand the best safety practices and procedures in a language they understand to protect themselves. Additionally, delivering workplace training in the language employees understand may improve their productivity, compliance and morale.
Did you know that Summit Anchor offers a certificate of training for fall protection in English and Spanish?
You don’t have to be one of our anchorage customers to use our services. We provide on-site classes customized to your job site’s fall hazard risks.
We’d love to work with your team to make your job site as safe as possible. Call us to schedule a consultation or clink on the link to learn more.
Contact us today to arrange your fall protection class in English or Spanish.
Click here to read in Spanish.
Haga clic aqui para leer en Español.
CONTACT US.
Whether your project is in Athens, Greece or Anchorage, Alaska, or all points in between, we are your full service fall protection provider.
Call Summit Anchor Company today to speak with one of our representatives.
