It’s a scenario that happens all too often. A worker operating equipment nearly caused a serious accident. The foreman later finds out that the worker was not qualified to use the machine.
Construction companies, both general contractors and subcontractors, need the ability to make accurate worker training records available to supervisors, safety inspectors, auditors, safety officers, training managers and administrative staff. Workers need access to their records to learn which certifications are about to expire so they can register for recertification. Ensuring that only qualified employees are assigned to potentially dangerous work is the foundation of safety.
QR code technology is at the heart of a solution.
QR codes connect training records to phone screen
Quick Response (QR) codes can tie all this together. QR Code is the trademark name for the two-dimensional barcode system. It’s the black and white square that’s on everything from ads to inventory. It was invented in 1994 by a Toyota subsidiary to track vehicles as they were assembled and scan components at high speeds. QR codes contain 100 times more data than one-dimensional barcodes and can be digitally scanned.
To track employee training, a unique code is generated and assigned to each employee. The code can be printed on the worker’s photo ID card, hard hat, or silicone wristband. Codes can be read by scanning the code with a smartphone or tablet. By linking the device to the employee’s cloud profile, the code gives the user access to:
§ training records such as courses completed, recent recertifications, qualifications and skills, internal and external class work, and class attendance rosters;
§ supplemental information such as health insurance, background checks, and drug tests; Y
§ Additional information such as emergency medical information (including blood type and allergies), workplace documentation, verification of identity, position or title, and real-time job assignments.
QR codes can quickly update training. Instructors can automatically record who has completed a training course by scanning the QR code on the employee’s badge or entering the employee ID number. Managers and foremen can track attendance at workplace meetings, briefings, company orientation sessions, and safety briefings.
Tracking safety equipment issued to employees is one way to use QR codes in construction. For example, OSHA’s new silica regulations require companies to track the use of respirator masks. If an employee wears a mask more than 30 times a year, he needs to have a specialized medical check-up.
Construction companies, especially those in the masonry, drywall, and demolition sectors, do not have an easy way to track the emission of respirator masks. Tracing it on paper is clunky.
With the cloud-based system, authorized employees can scan the QR code on an employee’s badge to record payment for a respirator, climbing harness or other gear. The database is immediately updated to record this event. Managers can always download a complete spreadsheet of all equipment reviewed, by employee, to meet regulatory reporting requirements.