Page 46 - Test

Assuming trainers are using AMHSA’s system, students are required to pass an exam (developed by
AMHSA). The pass mark is 80%. If they don’t achieve this on their first attempt, review the exam with
them, discuss areas of difficulty, and give them a chance to rewrite.

Be sensitive to those with low literacy skills. Though they understand the concepts, they may not
understand the written questions. This exam can be administered orally. However, also be aware that
for those with low literacy, a lot of the written information on labels and MSDS will not be very helpful.
So site specific training and a good understanding of the hazard symbols is critical.

SITE-SPECIFIC EDUCATION

As a trainer, you will need to ensure workers also receive site specific education. This means ensuring
workers know the hazards of the products they work with, as well as storage, handling and emergency
response procedures for them.

Therefore trainers will need to know what controlled products participants are working with, and know
the proper procedures for handling storage and emergency situations for these controlled products.
Hazards and handling of exempted controlled products will also need to be addressed. In some
cases, there may be several controlled products that have similar hazards. You could discuss these as
a group, rather than each specifically.

Participants will need to know where Material Safety Data Sheets are kept, who they talk to if they have
questions, and where to find any written work practices or procedures for using some controlled
products. They also need to know who writes up the worksite labels - workers or supervisors. How do
they know what to write?

In case of emergencies, they will need to know about eyewashes, showers and how to get emergency
assistance.

These concepts all tie into a municipality’s overall health and safety management system.

To help with training, samples of controlled products with both supplier and worksite labels may be
helpful, as well as copies of MSDS used at the worksite. If MSDS are stored in a certain way
(alphabetically, numerically, etc.) that should be explained. If they are kept in a special binder or stand,
a sample should be available for participants to see. As well, any war stories (incidents, emergencies,
near misses) with controlled products may make this information more meaningful.

CLASSROOM TIPS

1. Select a room that:

 is quiet

 will not have distractions such as other people wandering through
 has good lighting and ventilation
 has sufficient writing space for each course participant

2. Keep group sizes small. Small groups are:

 more manageable
 allow for individual discussion
 will increase the amount of learning and retention of what was taught

44 AMHSA