The construction industry is ever-changing.

It is crucial for companies to keep track with the latest information and technology or they risk becoming obsolete.

Here are 12 things you should know about starting a construction training program:

1. Invest in your employees

Construction work is physically demanding; it can lead to injury if done improperly.

This means having an effective training program benefits both the employee and the company.

Employees who have been trained properly tend to be happier, more productive, less likely to make mistakes leading to accidents, and require less supervision because of their experience at their job site.

2. Training should be a continuous process

Construction work is a unique job that requires constant education and training.

As new technology comes out, it’s important to have employees trained on the latest techniques.

When workers receive consistent training they tend to perform better on-site and become more knowledgeable about certain aspects of their trade.

Additionally, employees who are constantly learning new things don’t get bored with monotonous tasks and will be less likely to make mistakes due to complacency.

3. Use visual aids

Some people think that construction workers aren’t as intelligent as other workers, this isn’t true!

While some may not like school or like reading, most people learn best through pictures and images.

Visual aids can be used during training to help reinforce learning and comprehension of the material being taught.

Whether it’s a video, diagram, or hands-on demonstration, visual aids are a great way to convey information.

4. Have employees train each other

While having one person train the entire workforce might seem easier at first glance, this method often results in missed information that affects several people.

Employees learn from their peers just as much as they do from the instructors who teach them if not more!

Having workers train each other will ensure everyone is up to speed on new techniques and changes within the company.

After all, construction work isn’t easy and it’s important to use the most effective methods possible.

5. Have an employee study hall

Employee study halls are beneficial for several reasons.

First, it gives workers a chance to refresh what they’ve learned; after all, construction work is ever-changing and new information often comes out quickly.

Second, during these designated hours employees can ask any questions they may have about specific procedures or safety measures.

Third, it allows them to share ideas with their peers which helps promote learning throughout the company.

The more everyone knows about construction work, the better quality of work you will see on-site.

6. Allow employees to research their work

In construction, there is always something new being learned and changing how work is completed.

Some employees might feel intimidated because they don’t know everything that’s going on in the world of construction.

To reduce this stress, provide them with resources that allow them to do a little bit of independent research about their trade.

Whether it’s a computer or books from your company library, providing workers with tools to teach themselves can help bring down levels of employee anxiety and increase productivity.

7. Learn what motivates each worker

Everyone works differently.

Some people prefer constant reassurance while others want more freedom within a specific job.

Some people want to be told what to do while others need a little more freedom within a set schedule.

Knowing what each worker might prefer allows you to design your training program around the individuals in your company.

The goal is for employees to take away something positive from their training sessions, and knowing how different workers react can help make this possible.

8. Focus on safety first

There’s nothing worse than an injured or deceased employee.

Accidents simply aren’t worth the risk. When employees feel safe at work they tend to perform better and will concentrate on doing their job instead of worrying about getting hurt.

For example, if an incident occurs that makes the crew uncomfortable (such as a piece of machinery breaking or not working properly) you can hold a meeting to figure out how everyone else would want the situation handled.

This way, even if something goes wrong there are no hard feelings because everyone was involved in coming up with a solution.

9. Use industry buzzwords and lingo

When teaching new employees or updating experienced workers on new procedures and innovations in the field, it’s best to use language they understand and relate to.

Using simple words and phrases can help make training sessions feel less like lectures.

When they’re having fun learning about construction work they’ll remember what they learned more easily.

Plus, they might even feel more confident teaching others about what they’ve learned.

10. Have a Q&A session

When you’re done with training sessions, make sure to hold a question and answer session.

This is the perfect time for employees to get clarification on anything they don’t completely understand or want more information on.

For example, you could hold separate meetings depending on what group of workers you’re updating (carpentry vs excavation).

By doing this not only will you be providing crucial information that all employees can benefit from, but it will also ensure that each section keeps up-to-date with the newest construction company developments

11. Give workers a copy of the training manual

Every construction company creates a manual that outlines how jobs should be completed.

By giving your employees a physical copy of this manual you can help them learn faster and more efficiently, while also ensuring that workers will have a reference if something is unclear.

Whether it’s a digital or print-out version, make sure to keep the manual updated often so employees know they’re getting information on the most up-to-date practices.

12. Bring in outside trainers

Because there are always new developments in any industry it’s important to stay up-to-date with what’s going on within your specific field.

Outside trainers allow you to do this.

For example, if your company is starting to use construction drones for building inspections you could hire an outside trainer to explain how they work and what purposes they serve.

This can help your workers feel more comfortable with the technology as well as aid them in figuring out ways that it might impact their day-to-day jobs.

Always looking for new opportunities to make their employees’ lives easier, while also bringing down costs at the same time.

The best way to achieve both these goals is by starting a training program.

By teaching workers about everything from basic construction safety to cutting edge innovations within the industry you can keep morale up, cut costs on mistakes and accidents, and make everyone feel more engaged with their day-to-day jobs.