What should adequate training ensure for employees?

Adequate training should ensure that employees possess sufficient competence for their roles and responsibilities. This means that they have gained the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to perform their tasks effectively and safely. Competence is critical in an occupational health and safety context because it directly impacts the employee’s ability to recognize hazards, follow safe work practices, and make informed decisions that promote workplace safety.

Training that focuses on competencies prepares employees to handle specific situations they may encounter on the job, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall performance. It includes teaching them about safety protocols, proper equipment handling, emergency procedures, and regulatory compliance. When employees are competent, the likelihood of workplace incidents decreases, benefiting both the employees' safety and the organization's operational efficiency.

While working independently, socializing well, and following company rules are important aspects of the workplace, they do not capture the primary purpose of training, which is to ensure that employees can perform their jobs safely and effectively. Competence is the foundation upon which other attributes can be built.