Introduction:
As you read this article, please understand that these are my personal views and opinion. There are numerous factors that need to be considered including what industry you want to serve, as well as the highest level you want to obtain in your journey.
The safety profession plays a crucial role in protecting workers and ensuring workplace well-being. Whether you’re a newcomer considering a career in safety or an experienced professional looking to further your skills, this blog will guide you on developing your core competencies for growth. We’ll explore the advantages of entering the safety field through the trades instead of traditional college education and discuss the importance of instructor training in key areas. We’ll also delve into why certifications don’t necessarily guarantee excellence in safety and recommend training avenues that truly make you a great safety professional.
Advantages of Entering Safety Through the Trades:
1. Hands-on Experience: Trades provide a unique opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in various industries. Safety professionals with a trade background often have a better understanding of the specific challenges and hazards within their field, which is invaluable when creating and implementing safety measures.
2. Industry-Specific Knowledge: A safety professional with a trade background is well-versed in the intricacies of their chosen industry. This deep understanding enables them to tailor safety programs to the specific needs of their workplace.
3. Career Progression: Starting in the trades can be a steppingstone to a successful safety career. Many safety managers and directors started as tradespeople, demonstrating that the experience gained in the field can lead to leadership roles in safety management.
Instructor Training in Essential Areas:
1. First Aid: As a safety professional, knowing how to administer first aid is a fundamental skill. Being an accredited first aid instructor not only equips you to respond to emergencies but also allows you to educate others, ensuring a safer work environment.
2. Forklift Operations: Forklifts are commonly used in many industries, and proper training in forklift operations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
3. Hazardous Materials: Understanding how to handle hazardous materials safely is essential in various industries. Instructor training in this area can help you become a subject matter expert, guiding your organization’s safe practices.
4. Fall Protection: Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities. Learning how to train workers in fall protection techniques and equipment usage is vital for creating a safer work environment.
“The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.”
– John Maxwell
Why Certification Doesn’t Guarantee Excellence:
While certifications certainly demonstrate your commitment to safety and your knowledge in the field, they are not the sole indicator of a great safety professional. Here are some reasons why:
1. Practical Experience: Safety is a field where practical experience matters just as much as theoretical knowledge. Certifications provide the foundation, but real-world application and problem-solving skills are crucial for success.
2. Continuous Learning: Safety regulations and best practices are constantly evolving. A certification is only a snapshot of your knowledge at a particular point in time. To excel in safety, you must stay current with industry changes and adapt your strategies accordingly.
3. Soft Skills: Interpersonal skills, communication, and leadership abilities are essential for a safety professional. Certifications don’t necessarily assess or develop these crucial soft skills.
Training that May Make You a Better Safety Professional:
1. Effective Communication: Invest in courses that improve your communication and interpersonal skills. As a safety professional, you must convey complex information clearly, engage with workers, and influence a safety-oriented culture.
2. Leadership and Management: Training in leadership and management equips you with the skills needed to lead safety initiatives effectively, manage teams, and drive change within your organization.
3. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Developing the ability to identify and solve safety challenges will set you apart as a great safety professional. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are invaluable in this regard.
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
– George Bernard Shaw
Conclusion:
Entering the safety profession through the trades offers unique advantages, and instructor training in areas like first aid, forklift operations, hazardous materials, and fall protection can further enhance your expertise. While certifications are important, they are just the beginning of your journey to becoming a great safety professional. Continuous learning, practical experience, and honing your soft skills will be the key to your success in this critical field. By building a strong foundation and staying committed to growth, you can make a meaningful impact on workplace safety and well-being.