THE CONCEPT OF LIFELONG LEARNING has been embraced by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) for many years. In an area like occupational health and safety (OSH), the outcome of failing to perform at an acceptable level can be critical. It is essential to refresh, maintain and develop the skills needed for competent performance. This requirement is not exclusive to any group, as health and safety issues affect every person in the workplace, from director to worker. The continual change in both legal requirements and best practice, however, require OSH professionals in particular to update their knowledge and skills. The extent to which occupational health and safety knowledge and skills are maintained is dependent on the initial requirements identified for individuals within the workplace. Many organisations identify their training and development requirements by using competence matrices for different levels of staff. This approach also considers the hazards that a person may potentially be exposed to, so that suitable training can be identified. This seems to be a logical and sound approach to the identification and provision of needs and also helps to develop records that can be used in the overall assessment of an organisation's performance.
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