Subject: Training 4.18
Date: Thu, 23 Sep 1999 15:04:48 -0700
From: "D., John"
To: Forum_Mail

At what point is training required to be documented? I am looking for a
definition to eliminate the unnecessary from the required. As an example,
we have a job that is set up by the lead person for an operator to do. We
have control plans and work instructions in place and the operator is
instructed in what is required. Now this may be the only time we do this
particular job. Do we need to have a training record documented for this
operator?

Thank you for your patience.

Train your operators how to follow your work instructions and ('as appropriate') control plan. Document that training.

and the operator is instructed in what is required.What are they 'instructed' to do beyond following the work instruction? Need more details.

I think,which is quite dangerous at times, that any time the initial process is changed or deviated from, that can effect the end product, you should go ahead and document the training for the change.

Also, if a auditor asks for proof of the operators training on a specific piece of machinery, go to the OSHA safety training records for the individual. (I hope you have them. If not, start.)

I think (dangerous ground again) that if you have good personnel records, showing qualifications for specific machines by the operators, then they would only have to do the setup for new operations according to whatever specs. are required. You should then only have to document training on the new setup specification.

Did I get that right?

Training is pretty clear..... don't train a machinist how to mill a part, give him a spec to go by. don't train a nurse how to take a temp....give her 'hospital policy' on when its done and what form to fillout.

You can even certify by verification of proficiency.... just document that verification....trouble with that is next time someone has to learn the job the trainer has to start from scratch. Sometimes its worth the effort to ensure consistency down the road. what ever works

Contemporary comments?

All my operators / set-up personnel have the general requirements for the position that they are hired for. Any advancement in their position requires a training record or review (that lists the requirements or accomplishments)

All of my processes are fully documented, so there is no need to retrain if the process changes…just read the documentation.

But each industry is different.