Safety training isn't just essential—it's your backstage pass to a safer, smarter workplace! However, traditional methods like lectures and manuals can feel boring or overwhelming. A new way to make EHS safety training more engaging and fun is through gamification.
By incorporating games, you can motivate and educate employees more effectively. Have you tried using games for training in your workplace yet?
Gamification means adding fun, game-like elements to non-game activities. It uses points and leaderboards to make tasks more engaging and enjoyable. In safety training, gamification can turn ordinary lessons into exciting challenges, encouraging employees to achieve their goals and rewarding them for their success. This approach makes learning more fun and motivating.
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Why Gamify Safety Training:
83% of those who receive gamified training feel motivated, while 61% of those who receive non-gamified training feel bored and unproductive.
85% of employees show more engagement when gamification solutions are applied in their workplace training programs.
Around 90% of employees agreed gamification was making them more productive at work.
Gamification Can Increase Happiness in Employees by 89%.
Gamification Can Boost Company Productivity by Nearly 50%.
Companies That Implement Gamification are Found to be 7 Times More Profitable than Those that Don’t.
Types of Gamifying Activities:
1. Hands-On Demos
Hands-on demos provide practical knowledge and experience. These demos allow employees to practice real-world skills, ensuring they understand the procedures and can apply them effectively in the workplace.
Example:
During first aid training, employees engage in hands-on CPR practice. They learn how to administer chest compressions and rescue breaths correctly, working in pairs to perfect their technique.
2. Paper-Based Games
Paper-based games such as puzzles, quizzes, spot-the-hazard activities, and riddles, make learning interactive. These games encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
Example:
Employees participate in a "spot the hazard" game where they review images of a workplace and identify unsafe conditions, such as exposed wires or improper use of equipment, helping them recognize hazards in real life.
3. Leaderboards and Rewards
Leaderboards and rewards introduce friendly competition. Employees earn points for completing tasks, and those with the highest scores are recognized on leaderboards. This recognition fosters motivation and encourages continuous improvement.
Example:
During safety training, an audience response system is used to conduct live multiple-choice quizzes. Employees participate in real-time by selecting their answers on their devices, and the system instantly tallies the results. The leaderboard is displayed on a screen, showing the top performers and creating a sense of competition.
4. Role Playing
Role-playing exercises immerse employees in realistic scenarios. This approach builds confidence and enhances decision-making skills, preparing employees for real-life situations.
Example:
In a fire safety training, employees role-play as emergency responders. They practice evacuating a building and providing first aid, allowing them to experience a simulated emergency in a controlled environment.
5. Board Games
Board games are a fun way to learn about safety. They combine elements of strategy, competition, and interactive learning, making complex safety concepts more accessible and memorable.
Example:
A road safety board game can require employees to navigate a road while answering safety questions at different points in the game. This interactive approach reinforces knowledge and encourages players to think strategically about safety measures.
6. Scenario-Based Training
It presents employees with realistic situations they may encounter at work. Participants must navigate these scenarios and make decisions that impact the outcome. This method helps employees understand the consequences of their actions.
Example:
In an Emergency Response Training (ERP) module, employees are presented with a scenario where they must respond to an office fire. They practice identifying evacuation routes, using fire extinguishers, and communicating effectively with emergency services, helping them apply safety protocols in real-world situations.
7. Interactive Videos and Animations
Interactive videos and safety animations make training visually engaging. Employees can watch animated scenarios and interact with the content by making choices or answering questions. This approach helps illustrate complex safety concepts and keeps learners actively engaged.
Example:
An interactive video module demonstrates hot work safety. Employees watch animations showing scenarios involving welding and cutting and make decisions on safety measures at key points, such as wearing protective gear and setting up fire watches, reinforcing the correct procedures for preventing accidents.
8. Group Activities
Group activities promote teamwork and collaboration. Employees work together to solve challenges or complete tasks. These activities encourage participants to share ideas and learn from one another.
Example:
During electrical safety training, employees are divided into teams and tasked with conducting a risk assessment. They collaborate to identify risks and develop strategies to mitigate them, enhancing their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
9. 3D Models and Prototypes
3D models and prototypes provide a tangible learning experience. Employees can explore detailed models, gaining a better understanding of their components and functions.
Example:
In scaffolding safety training, employees examine 3D models of scaffolds to understand how they build. They learn how to safely perform tasks and identify hazards.
10. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer immersive training experiences.
VR simulations transport employees to a virtual environment where they can practice safety procedures, such as navigating a construction site.
AR overlays digital information in the real world, enhancing learning by providing interactive instructions and guidance.
Example:
VR allows employees to practice working at heights safely by simulating tasks like securing harnesses and setting up barriers in a virtual environment. AR can overlay safety instructions through smart glasses, guiding workers on real construction sites.
Implementing Gamification: Step-by-Step
1. Understanding the Training Objectives:
Before diving into gamification, it’s essential to understand why you want to conduct a particular training.
Ask yourself: What are the training objectives? Knowing the purpose of the training helps determine how gamification can support these goals.
2. Identifying the Target Audience:
Next, identify who will be participating in the training. For example, new employees might need basic training, while experienced staff may benefit from advanced scenarios. Consider their age, experience level, and job roles to tailor the gamification elements effectively.
3. Planning the Training Session:
Carefully plan the session by dividing content into theoretical parts and interactive elements. Use engaging formats like PowerPoints and videos for theory, and integrate games such as quizzes, role-playing, and team challenges to keep participants engaged.
Aim for a balanced ratio of theory to games, typically 60:40, but adjust as needed.
Personalize the training with company-specific scenarios and real-life examples to enhance relevance.
4. Measuring the Effectiveness of the Training:
To measure the effectiveness of the training, start taking feedback from participants.
Conduct assessments before and after the training session. Comparing these assessments provides insight into the effectiveness of the training and highlights areas for improvement.
Assess how well participants implement the learned skills and knowledge over time. This involves observing their application of training concepts in their daily work.
Conclusion
Safety training doesn't have to be boring. By using gamification, you can make learning about safety fun and engaging. Quizzes, interactive scenarios, and leaderboards can all make training more exciting.
When people enjoy learning, they remember the information better. This leads to a safer workplace for everyone. So, try adding some game-like elements to your safety training and see the difference it makes!
