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CBIL consulted with the Risk Management department at an institution of higher learning. This group is responsible for all safety and compliance training for the physical plant personnel at the college. Although the college is not bound by OSHA regulations, they voluntarily choose to conform to them. One of the OSHA training requirements is for each employee to complete Asbestos Awareness training on an annual basis. This training is meant to alert employees to the dangers of working near asbestos containing materials.

The target audience is geographically dispersed at five campus locations working two different shifts. Therefore, it was determined that an online learning solution would be the most efficient and effective way to distribute training to these employees.

CBIL associates developed a one-hour online learning program using Macromedia Breeze (now Adobe Connect Professional) . The final program incorporated audio narration, professional graphics, and photographs of campus locations and employees to provide a personal touch to the program. Multiple-choice quizzes were interspersed throughout the program to provide a quick check of whether a student comprehended the information provided. At the end of the program, students completed a final Knowledge Check. They were required to pass the test with a score of at least 80%.

This program is accessible from the college’s Blackboard Learning Management System. This system allows Risk Management personnel to register students, monitor course completions, and review final Knowledge Check and course evaluation results.

This program has been in place for approximately a year. It has been received with great success by employees and Risk Management representatives, as well. Currently 73 employees have completed the program. Average passing score for all students was 93%. More importantly, there have been no asbestos-related safety incidents since the inception of the program. Some of the feedback from participants includes the following:

• Using company employee photos to describe a certain situation is a nice touch.

• I liked the interactive part of the program. I think that will help those who learn from both seeing, reading material, and interacting with the process. The program was organized well and easy to follow.

• This instructional program was well organized and as concise as possible. I was concerned about possible work conflict on commencement but was able to schedule it in. The narration was also beneficial

• I think the program was very good. I don't have any suggestions for improvement. I think it would be an asset to have more programs like this to enhance the training and awareness of all College Employees.

Due to the success of this program, Risk Management personnel are currently considering offering other online safety programs to their employees.

For more information, please contact Lisa Stepanovic, Business Practice Leader for eLearning at 314.539.5296 or lstepanovic@stlcc.edu