[Effectiveness of a training programme in reducing occupational injuries: the Turin-Novara high-speed railway line experience].

BACKGROUND

There is little evidence in the literature to suggest that safety training is effective in reducing injuries at the workplace.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed at assessing the impact of a safety training programme on injury rates during construction work on the Turin-Novara high-speed railway line (2002-2006).

METHODS

We adopted a before-after study design. Since workers were enrolled and trained at different times, pre- and post-training periods were calculated individually for each worker

RESULTS

At the end of the training programme, the incidence of occupational injuries had fallen by 16% in the case of basic training and 25% for specific training. In the construction workers group (63.5% of trained workers) the reductions were 21% for basic training and 27% for specific training. All variations were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of the training programme described led to a reduction in injury rates.