Is OnGuard really necessary?

Safety in the workshops is paramount. Coming from the construction industry as a carpenter, builder, supervisor and project manager for over 30+ years, I have seen my share of accidents, many of which have happened to me. Most of the time, accidents happen when people rush, don’t prepare properly or are ignorant of the dangers.

I vividly remember my first lesson with year 7s last year as a teacher’s aide last year and watching them try to navigate the scroll saw! I am amazed no serious injuries occurred!
Although many may see safety as boring and repetitious, I like to be prepared and to have my students prepared and aware of what may harm them while they are in the workshop.

OnGuard is the chosen avenue to teach students the theory regarding safety. I am not a fan of OnGuard as it is chalk and talk, and most students do not retain safety information but only look through the text for sentences that match the answer.
In the absence of anything better, it is better than nothing. It does teach students that we are serious about safety and that standard operating procedures (SOPs) can save serious injury.
This year, I populated OnGuard reports daily for four (4) different classes to ensure students completed their designated OnGuard before using any tools or machinery. The report process is relatively simple, but getting the students to finish their OnGuard modules was challenging.
It was a good opportunity to establish rapport with the students and practice my behaviour management and teaching strategies.
Below are some photos of the reports and systems I created to address this workshop safety requirement.

OnGuard Reports

APST’S

OnGuard Safety Reports.

5.1 Assess, provide feedback and report on student learning: This standard emphasises assessing student understanding and progress. Reporting on OnGuard module completion falls under this category as it tracks student engagement with safety training.
5.2 Interpret student data to inform teaching strategies: Data on OnGuard module completion can inform teachers about which students might need additional support or clarification on safety protocols.
7.1 Meet the needs of diverse learners: Following up with students who haven’t completed the modules ensures all students receive the safety training, potentially catering to students needing additional support or different learning approaches.
7.2 Contribute to student well-being and safety: OnGuard modules cover critical safety information. Following up on completion demonstrates a commitment to student safety, a core aspect of teacher responsibility.

Indirectly related APST/s:
4.1 Create and implement engaging learning experiences: While not directly related to reporting, creating engaging OnGuard modules can increase student participation and completion rates.
6.2 Use ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) effectively to support learning and teaching: If a Learning Management System (LMS) or online platform tracks OnGuard module completion, teachers demonstrate proficiency in using technology for student learning purposes.

By following up on OnGuard module completion, teachers fulfil aspects of the APST/s related to student assessment, data-driven instruction, catering to diverse learners, and ensuring student safety and well-being.

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