Industrial emergency response training: an assessment of long-term impact of a union-based program.

BACKGROUND The long-term impact of the United Automobile Workers' (UAW) Industrial Emergency Response Training on health and safety conditions and practices in plants is described. Two strategies are combined in this 24-hour training: the use of peer (worker) trainers and a participant-centered approach, the Small Group Activity Method (SGAM). METHODS Impact was assessed through a telephone survey of 67 trainees conducted on average 16.8 months post-training. RESULTS 74% of trainees reported using at least one of the provided written training materials after training. Of those reporting an accident in their facility after training, 88% said it was handled differently because of training. Trainees report that peer-trainers are more knowledgeable and communicate better than do other types of trainers. Trainees also reported that SGAM made training more applicable to their workplace. 98.5% of trainees like the methods utilized. CONCLUSIONS Worker-trainers and SGAM are effective training methods enhancing the long-term impact of union-based workplace health and safety training programs.