Evaluation of training effectiveness in participatory work improvement applying a good-practice approach in small-scale workplaces

The effectiveness of a participatory action-oriented training (PAOT) programme was evaluated to know adequate types of training tools. The programme applied PAOT methods developed for improving small-scale workplaces in industrially developing countries. By means of a newly designed questionnaire, the understanding of training participants in proposing ergonomic improvements for reducing work-related risks were compared before and after serially held training workshops. The results showed that the participants increased their capabilities to apply ergonomic improvements learned from local good practices addressing multiple technical areas. Factors contributing to the training effects included the focus on locally feasible improvements, the use of action-oriented training tools such as action checklists and improvement guides and group planning of immediate changes. The training effects thus relied on the consistent use of action tools focusing on locally feasible improvements. It is suggested to promote the use of participatory training tools that can facilitate the direct application of multifaceted, locally feasible improvements.