As COVID-19 continues to disrupt every facet of life and business as we know it, there’s one thing the global pandemic has brought to the forefront: online training and e-learning. From junior high to university students, e-learning has become the new norm, with teachers adapting quickly to provide necessary materials. And for the millions stuck at home, video tutorials and e-classes provide everything from morning yoga sessions to DIY home projects.
But there’s also a plethora of online training courses for individuals working in construction, safety or hazardous waste operations and emergency response. With COVID-19 keeping people away from classroom and practical training, online training options provide the same high-quality theory training as in the classroom and can be completed on a range of devices anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.
Easybook Training has worked closely with a number of approved distance/e-learning providers to offer a range of online health and safety courses and e-learning classes including:
- OSHA 10 Construction
- HAZWOPER 40 Hour
- OSHA 30 Construction
- HAZWOPER 24 Hour
- OSHA 10 General Industry
- HAZWOPER 8 Hour Renewal
- OSHA 30 General Industry
MEWP-specific options
Just under two years ago, United Rentals spoke about how technology is changing the way training is delivered.
Speaking in regard of technology and training, the company said, “The traditional method of spending days in a classroom learning about safe equipment operation is quickly becoming replaced with blended learning (online theory combined with a live practical evaluation.) Technology has improved on the old methods and millennials are dominating the workforce with their digital know-how.”
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is another organization at the forefront of online learning, and the Federation noted how the global pandemic is affecting training.
“The full impact of COVID-19 on IPAF training availability is changing daily,” said the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF.) “We should prepare for the possibility that workers may struggle to find available training to qualify them to operate a MEWP or to renew an existing Powered Access License (PAL Card).”
IPAF’s eLearning provides an enhanced online learning experience for the mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) operator, MEWPs for Managers and MEWP Supervisor (North America only) training programs.
MEWP operator eLearning does not replace practical training. Trainees who complete the online training course must still pass a supervised theory test.
Driver and truck awareness training
The Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SC&RA) recently unveiled an online course about bridge safety and accident prevention. According to research conducted by the SC&RA, trucks and heavy equipment are causing an estimated $1.1 billion in damages a year when they hit bridges and other infrastructure.
“According to industry research, 35 states have reported that bridge and infrastructure hits are steadily rising,” said SC&RA Vice President of Transportation Steven Todd.
The 50-minute Bridge Safety & Accident Prevention online course was developed with the assistance of transportation and government officials across the country.
This safety course covers such topics as:
- Role of management in training and advocating safety and accident prevention;
- How the permitting process allows the driver to manage limitations of personnel and equipment;
- Elements of the pre-trip meeting to include steps to take, issuance and receipt of permit, as well as load securement;
- Elements of the physical move, including the role and responsibility of pilot cars.
These offerings are just a portion of what’s available to keep you educated and on top of current regulations and requirements. So, when that DIY project is done, register for an online course now.
Benefits of online training
- Cost effective
- Improved performance and productivity
- Convenience and flexibility
- Timely feedback
- Easier access to information
- Improved retention
- Personalization of training experience
