The Problem
How do you keep a busy supermarket stockroom safe, and in compliance – without shutting down the store to do training?
Our client used Automated Pallet Jacks and Lifters to haul heavy pallets of merchandise around the store. To comply with federal and state regulations, as well in internal safety guidelines, all operators need to be trained and certified before they can operate this equipment. And experienced operators need to be recertified every few years.
Our client’s request: Build us a Pallet Jack training that we can offer at any store location, on any shift, with or without a dedicated “Safety Trainer.”Prometheus Approach/Solution
We created a self-study tutorial program that would work in a supermarket environment.
In the supermarket, there was no guarantee that there would be a computer workstation, or that our target audience would have computer skills. So we opted for a tried-and-true solution:
Workbook: We designed a Workbook that would act as the roadmap for the entire program. It featured:
- Clear, easy-to-read text, presented in an entertaining way
- Lots of illustrations
- White space for note-taking
- Instructions on which section of the video to view, and what to do after viewing that section of the video
- Practice instructions and exercises
Video: We created a multi-module video to demonstrate features, functions, and safety procedures for equipment operation. Each module referenced back to the Workbook, for additional information and practice.
Assessment/Certification: Operators were issued a “Learner's Permit” when they had completed enough of the workbook/video to be able to complete a paper and pencil test. To qualify for a “Driver's License”, they needed to complete tasks on an Assessment Checklist, under the direct supervision of a mentor or supervisor. When the Assessment was satisfactorily completed, it was signed/dated and stored in the personnel file.
Posters: We created safety posters that matched illustrations in the workbook, to be hung on warehouse walls.
Refresher Training Strategy: We designated a subset of materials from the New Operator’s program to be reviewed by Experienced Operators who needed to renew their certification. Experienced Operators were required to complete the same Assessment/Certification checklist as the New Operators.
Special Skills/Software
- Instructional Design
- Technical Writing
- Graphic Design and Illustration
- Video Scripting
Result/Benefit to Client
Equipment Operators got solid, easy-to-follow safety training, available on their schedule. They also had an opportunity to practice and certify on their own site, under the guidance of an experienced operator who was knowledgeable about the special issues in their environment.
Store Management is pleased that their Pallet Jack operators had the training they needed to keep themselves and others safe in the workplace. And they are happy to be able to supply OSHA, or other regulators, with documented proof that training was complete, thorough, and timely.
For more information about this project, please contact us.