Training Frequency: The Three ‘Ps for Success’

A common question we receive is: “What training do I need to complete this year?”

The answer isn’t always straightforward—it depends on the Three Ps:
Have the People, Products, or Processes changed?

If any of these areas have changed, training may be required or recommended. Many regulatory training requirements are triggered by these changes. Training is typically required in the following situations:

• When a program is first established
• For all new employees
• When employees are assigned to new roles requiring training they have not previously received
• When new substances, equipment, procedures, or processes are introduced that present new hazards

Even when training is not required on a specific schedule, periodic refresher training and plan reviews are considered best practice. It’s important to note that the frequency of plan reviews does not always match the frequency of required training.

If no major changes have occurred, here are some of the most common programs our clients maintain, along with recommended or required training frequencies:

Common Workplace Training Topics & Frequencies

1. Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) – Annual review recommended
2. Hazard Communication (HazCom) – Required annually
3. HAZWOPER – Annual refresher with competency demonstration
4. Process Safety Management (PSM) – Acutely Hazardous Materials – Refresher every 3 years
5. Lead Exposure – Monitoring frequency based on exposure; typically quarterly to annually
6. Respiratory Protection – Required annually
7. Workplace Violence Prevention – Annual refresher recommended
8. Chemical Hygiene Plan – Annual refresher recommended; annual plan review required
9. Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Plan – Annual review recommended (if applicable)
10. Hazardous Waste Generator Training – Annual review; training at least every 2 years
11. Fire Extinguisher Use – At least annually for California businesses that provide extinguishers
12. Forklift / Scissor Lift – At least every 3 years
13. Ladder Safety – At least every 4 years (often overlooked)
14. DOT Hazardous Materials Shipping – Every 3 years
15. SPCC Training – At least every 5 years
16. Confined Space Entry – Every 1–2 years recommended
17. Bloodborne Pathogens – Required annually
18. Electrical Safety – Every 3 years

Importance of Training Records

Maintaining accurate and complete training records is essential for compliance and internal accountability. Training records serve as proof of completion, demonstrate due diligence, and are often required during regulatory inspections or audits. At a minimum, training records should include:

• Name of the trainer
• Topics covered during the training
• Date the training occurred
• Legible name of each trainee
• Signature or acknowledgment of participation (if applicable)

In most cases, these records must be maintained for a minimum of three years. However, depending on the regulatory agency or program, a longer retention period may apply.

CDMS’s Role:

CDMS supports California businesses by providing, organizing, and updating both training programs and written safety plans. If you’d like a review of your current training schedule or have questions about regulatory requirements for your industry, reach out to us at service@cdms.com.