Investing in Native-Language Instruction

The Importance of Native Language Training

Imagine you're visiting a country where you don't speak the native language. You might manage to order food, find the restroom, and handle other basic tasks. But when it comes to something more complex, where real comprehension is required, the language barrier suddenly feels like a brick wall. You realize you're in over your head.

This scenario highlights an essential point when it comes to training workers who aren't fluent in English. Could training them in English only become a stumbling block to their understanding and execution of complex tasks?

The answer is a resounding “Yes!” From early education, teachers have known that English Language Learners (ELLs) only benefit from instruction when they can first grasp the material in their native language. There's a big difference between recognizing English words and truly comprehending them. In the workplace, the same rules apply. Operators who primarily speak Spanish should receive training in Spanish. Even if they understand the words being spoken in English, training in their native language helps them fully grasp each safety concept being taught. 

OSHA's Stance

OSHA backs this up, emphasizing that “OSHA's training provisions contain specific requirements related to employee comprehension." For example, §1910.147(c)(7)(i) (Lockout/Tagout) requires the employer to verify that the employees have "acquired" the knowledge and skills which they have been trained; §1910.134(k)(5)(ii)”. OSHA mandates that training must be done in a language and vocabulary the employee can understand. If someone doesn’t speak or comprehend English, their instruction must be provided in a language they do understand.

The Value of Multilingual Training

Offering training in multiple languages isn’t just culturally sensitive—it can also prevent costly and dangerous accidents caused by misunderstandings. While creating a Spanish or other language curriculum might add to your upfront costs, those expenses are nothing compared to the potential fallout from an accident or the OSHA fines that could follow inadequate training.

Consider the case of Torcon, Inc. Their bilingual communication and safety training program led to a 30% decrease in injuries at their job sites, along with improved employee relations and greater client satisfaction. Yes, they invested time, energy, and resources into developing this program, but the benefits far outweighed the costs of translation. 

When building and updating your training curriculum, take into account how many non-native English speakers you have operating equipment. Get feedback from your employees to see if a Spanish-language curriculum would help them better comprehend the material being trained. Hire bilingual trainers and support staff that can help in assisting in bridging the language barrier. Ultimately, language misunderstandings are a poor excuse for a dangerous accident and could be prevented with thorough research and preparation.

TrainMOR offers Spanish Instruction! Providing training in your employees' native language boosts their confidence and deepens their understanding of safety protocols, shielding your business from the hidden costs of operator error.

In the end, prevention is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing workplace injuries. By investing in Spanish-language training, you're not just adding an extra layer of safety; you're ensuring your employees are fully equipped to operate machinery safely and effectively, no matter their primary language.