SIMTARS (Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station) John Ninness said it was important for industry to recognise when it was appropriate to use safety education and when to use safety training.

“Education is about preparing people for the future and helping them understand the big picture. The sort of background things that help you understand why you might be doing something,” Ninness said.

“It is particularly relevant in respect of managing a change process in the workplace. Things like implementing new initiatives,” he said.

“Training is about preparing people to do tasks, to service a chock for example. While it also may form part of a change program, it is more relevant to operational needs.

“Training helps people build skills while education helps people understand the concepts.”

Ninness said where critical aspects of safety are involved, training is very relevant because it provides a focus at becoming competent in a specific task or activity.

“In the underground coal environment many people know and appreciate the requirements for using oxygen self-rescuers, but how many have the skills to use them in an emergency situation? We must continually assess whether we have imparted an education or have received training,” he said.

Ninness said he believed many of Australia’s longwall mines were already assessing their requirements before initiating training contributing to their strategic objectives by adding value to the operation.

“Before undertaking training at your mine, or selecting an external consultant to prepare and deliver the course, aim to assess your purpose. Is it training or education?”