Content area
Full Text
The primary function of a job briefing is to effectively identify, evaluate and control hazardous situations or job tasks. OSHA 1910.269, which governs the operation and maintenance of electric power generation, control, transformation, transmission, and distribution lines and equipment, mandates job briefings to be performed before each job. Each briefing must cover the hazards associated with the job, the work procedures involved, special precautions, energy-source controls and PPE requirements.
The standard requires at least one job briefing prior to work. Additional briefings are required if significant changes occur during the course of work that may affect employee safety. Typically, a crew supervisor or foreman will conduct a job briefing prior to starting a job task or work activity.
Gagné's (1985) nine events of instruction provide an effective stepby- step approach for trainers and educators by delivering a structure for developing a holistic learning experience. Participants learn the theory and put it into practice. Their knowledge is reinforced by feedback, which is then retained and transferred back to the workplace. Job briefings should be reviewed in the field, following a systematic approach to accomplish meeting an educational objective through Gagné's nine events of instruction to prevent injuries and incidents on the job. Good and Brophy (1990) note:
[Gagné's nine steps are] general considerations to be taken into account when designing instruction. Although some steps might need to be rearranged (or might be unnecessary) for certain types of lessons, the general set of considerations provide a good checklist of key design steps.
This instructional technology tool will ensure that the person delivering the job briefing can assess performance. It enhances retention and transfer of the job briefing's subject matter, which utilizes Gagné's nine events of instruction in the field.
Gagné's Nine Events of Instruction
This section outlines how to instruct an audience, disseminate information and request feedback using Gagné's (1985, pp. 302-330) nine-step method:
1) Gain attention.
2) Inform learner of the objective.
3) Stimulate recall of prior knowledge (relevant prerequisites).
4) Present new content.
5) Provide learning guidance.
6) Elicit performance.
7) Provide feedback.
8) Assess performance.
9) Enhance retention and transfer.
By using these nine steps, the instruction will be sequential and...