Initial health and safety training is the employer's responsibility – employees must be trained before being allowed to work. As a standard, it includes general instruction and workplace instruction. In accordance with applicable regulations, workplace instruction must take place at a specific workplace, in the place where tasks are performed, and therefore cannot be conducted entirely online.
When can part of the training be conducted remotely?
From 1 July 2023, following legal changes, it will be possible to conduct general health and safety instruction using electronic communication tools (i.e. online) – as far as this part of the training is concerned, the relevant ministries confirm that this form does not violate the regulations.
However, even if general instruction can be conducted online, workplace instruction must remain stationary – at the workplace, with a demonstration and assessment of conditions and hazards in the actual environment.
What about remote/hybrid work?
If a newly hired employee will be working remotely or hybrid, the initial health and safety training can be conducted entirely online, as guided self-study – both general and on-the-job training tailored to remote working conditions.
This solution is particularly important in the era of working from home: the employer is obliged to train such an employee in health and safety, even if their position is outside the company's premises.
Tips for companies organising initial health and safety training:
- Divide the training into two parts: you can offer the general part online, and the job-specific part in person or (for remote work) adapted to the conditions of working from home.
- Document the job-specific training - photographs, reports, confirmation of attendance and familiarisation with the realities of the job.
- Provide for consultations and the opportunity to ask questions online – participants should be able to contact the trainer, clarify any doubts or discuss issues.
- Adapt the training materials to the job and the specific nature of the work – even the general part should take into account the specific nature of the company and general hazards.
- Ensure a path for confirmation and certification – it must be clear who completed the training and when, what materials were covered, and whether the test was passed.
Why is it worth using hybrid solutions (online + in-person)?
- Effectiveness and comprehensiveness – you ensure real familiarisation with the workplace plus the convenience of general learning at home.
- Time and logistics savings – less need to gather the team and organise rooms.
- Flexibility – employees can take part of the course when they have the space to do so and focus better on key content.
Summary
Not every part of initial health and safety training can be conducted online. General instruction – yes, provided that electronic communication tools are used. On-the-job training – no, it must be conducted on site. The exception is remote/hybrid positions, where the entire process can be conducted online as guided self-study.
Ensure correct division, documentation and appropriate materials - this will not only allow you to comply with legal requirements, but also simplify the training process and make it more accessible and effective.
