Worker Training Updates: When and How They Should Be Conducted

How Often Should Worker Training Updates Be Conducted?

The general rule for updating worker training is outlined in the State-Regions Agreement of December 21, 2011 (effective January 26, 2012). According to Chapter 9 of this agreement:

Workers are required to undergo an update every five years, with a minimum duration of 6 hours, regardless of the level of risk (low, medium, or high).

In addition to the general five-year requirement, updates may be required in the following cases:

Introduction of new technologies or equipment.
Changes in worker tasks or roles.
Emergence of new risks or changes in existing risks.

Moreover, Article 37, Paragraph 6, of Legislative Decree 81/08 states that training must be periodically repeated in response to evolving risks or the identification of new risks. Compliance with this requirement is subject to inspections by supervisory bodies.

Is Updating Mandatory for All Workers in All Companies?

Yes, training updates are mandatory for all workers, regardless of the company size or sector. Specific requirements include:

For Worker Safety Representatives (RLS):
- In companies with 15–50 employees, the update must be at least 4 hours.
- In companies with more than 50 employees, the update must be at least 8 hours.
For Companies with Fewer than 15 Employees: Updates are required only when there is an evolution of risks or new risks emerge.

While updating is a legal obligation, it also represents a social commitment to worker safety, ensuring all employees are adequately prepared to manage workplace risks.

What Does the Update Include?

Training updates should not repeat topics already covered in basic courses. Instead, the focus should be on:

New legal provisions and regulatory changes.
Technical advancements in risk management relevant to the workers’ roles.
Updates on company safety organization and management practices.
Preventive measures to address emerging risks.

A sample curriculum for worker training updates might include:

Legal updates.
Technical insights into specific risks.
Strategies for organizing and managing workplace safety.
Preventive measures to minimize hazards.

When Should Other Company Roles Update Their Training?

Supervisors:
- Required to update every 5 years (minimum 6 hours).
- Focuses on their responsibilities in health and safety.
Managers:
- Must participate in periodic updates to stay informed about the latest regulations and safety practices.
RSPP (Employer as the Safety Manager):
- Updates are required every 5 years, with durations based on the company’s risk level (determined by the ATECO classification):
  - Low Risk: 6 hours.
  - Medium Risk: 10 hours.
  - High Risk: 14 hours.
RLS (Worker Safety Representatives):
- Updates depend on the number of employees in the company:
  - Up to 50 employees: Minimum 4 hours.
  - Over 50 employees: Minimum 8 hours.
- Topics include fire prevention, injury prevention, and other relevant safety measures.

Where and How Can Training Updates Be Conducted?

Training updates can take place:

On-site at the company.
At the training organization’s facilities.
Online through e-learning platforms

Worker training updates are strategically important and legally required for all companies. However, many businesses remain unaware of the full scope of these requirements.

To ensure compliance and optimize training schedules, companies should consider professional consultancy services. Experts can provide guidance on:

Worker rights concerning training.
Project criteria for training updates.
Necessary documentation.
Organizing and scheduling courses effectively.

Collaboration with training and compliance professionals guarantees better management of legal obligations and helps companies enhance workplace safety.