It is a scenario that occurs all too often. A worker operating equipment almost causes a serious accident. The foreman later discovers 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 know which certifications are about to expire so they can register for recertification. Ensuring that only qualified employees are assigned to potentially hazardous jobs is the foundation of safety.
QR code technology is at the heart of a solution.
QR codes connect training records to the phone screen
Quick response (QR) codes can tie all this together. QR Code is the registered 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 being 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, helmet, or silicone wristband. The 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, grades 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, identity verification, position or title, and real-time job assignments.
QR codes can quickly update the training. Instructors can automatically record who has completed a training course by scanning the QR code on the employee’s badge or by entering the employee’s ID number. Managers and foremen can track attendance at job site 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 respirator use. If an employee wears a mask more than 30 times a year, he needs to have a specialized medical checkup.
Construction companies, especially those in the masonry, drywall, and demolition sectors, do not have an easy way to track respirator emission. Tracking it down on paper is clumsy.
With the cloud-based system, authorized employees can scan the QR code on an employee’s badge to record payment for a respirator mask, climbing harness or other gear. The database is immediately updated to record this event. Managers can always download a full spreadsheet of all equipment reviewed, by employee, to meet regulatory reporting requirements.