Effective Worker Training

Worker training is the most important part of produce safety on-farm, however it can be difficult to design an effective worker training program that engages both new and returning workers.

Effective worker training is essential for reducing the risk of microbial contamination on produce farms. Worker training ensures that all employees, volunteers, and anyone else involved in handling fresh produce are aware of potential hazards and understand the necessary precautions to minimize contamination.

The primary purpose of food safety training is to equip workers with the knowledge and skills they need to recognize and manage potential contamination risks present on the farm in which they work. This includes personal hygiene practices, safe handling techniques, and awareness of various factors that could lead to contamination. By understanding the risks involved, workers can act proactively to prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.

Importantly, worker training does not have to be lengthy or time-consuming. While at least one person on-farm must complete the PSA Grower Training (if the farm is covered by the Produce Safety Rule), the essential training for on-farm workers can be streamlined into more digestible formats. Short, comprehensive training videos in both English and Spanish can serve as a useful introduction to food safety on farms. These videos are an effective tool for teaching workers about basic concepts like handwashing, proper storage techniques, and how to avoid cross-contamination. Don’t forget to document each training session to maintain the required records.

Repeating the same training materials year after year may result in employees becoming disengaged or simply going through the motions without retaining key information. To avoid this, it’s important to update and customize the training content to reflect the specific risks present on the farm. For instance, different farms may face varying challenges depending on the types of produce grown, local environmental conditions, or the size of the workforce. Emphasizing food safety practices and hazards that are directly relevant to the farm’s operations will keep the training engaging and valuable.

Practical demonstrations of produce safety scenarios allow workers to directly apply what they’ve learned and ask questions in a real-world context. Managers and supervisors should make time to observe workers, offer guidance and feedback, and ensure food safety protocols are consistently followed. This ongoing interaction helps develop a culture of food safety where workers feel comfortable approaching management with concerns. Training should not be a one-time event; as new risks, regulations, and technology emerge, ongoing education is essential. Routine training sessions, periodic refreshers, and open lines of communication will further reinforce this culture and foster a sense of responsibility among workers.

In conclusion, worker training is at the heart of on-farm produce safety, and it must be continuous, adaptable, and engaging. By focusing on clear, practical training methods and tailoring the content to the specific farm environment, producers can ensure that their workers are well-equipped to handle produce safely and effectively.

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Article by Breanna Hannula, Produce Safety Technician