THE FOUNDATIONAL ROLE OF SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND LIFELONG LEARNING

The following article is written by Sian Thurtell, Chief Operating Officer at KBC Health & Safety. It is Part 2 of a two-part series.

Investing in competence should not be seen as an operational expense, but rather as a move that aligns seamlessly with the organisation’s strategic safety objectives. By prioritising skill development, organisations create a safer work environment, reduce the frequency and severity of accidents, and enhance overall operational efficiency. This, in turn, contributes to cost savings, improved employee morale, and a positive business reputation.

Building a competent workforce

Cultivating a culture of lifelong learning is essential to sustaining a competent workforce. By offering diverse learning opportunities, such as formal training, workshops, conferences, and online courses, organisations empower employees to expand their knowledge and skills. Additionally, providing access to mentorship programmes, job rotations, and project-based learning can facilitate skill development and knowledge sharing.

Recognising and rewarding employees for their learning achievements is also vital in reinforcing the importance of continuous development. Celebrating successes, both big and small, motivates employees to pursue further learning opportunities. Furthermore, creating a psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable in raising objections to unsafe working conditions or voicing uncertainty is essential for fostering a culture of learning through accountability. Open communication channels and a willingness to share knowledge and experiences among employees can facilitate knowledge transfer and enhance collaboration.

Competence – the cornerstone of workplace safety

Promoting competence is indispensable for organisations aiming to create a robust safety culture. As one of the critical pillars of safety – alongside commitment and compliance – competence empowers employees to actively participate in preventing accidents and injuries. When employees possess the necessary skills and knowledge, they are better equipped to identify hazards, understand safety protocols, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.

By investing in employee development and fostering a culture of continuous learning, organisations not only enhance safety performance but also cultivate a workforce that is adaptable, resilient, and committed to creating a safer work environment. Fundamentally, competence is the catalyst that transforms safety from a passive obligation into a proactive and integral part of organisational culture.