Getting Started with Hoist Training
As a first step, consider what skills need to be trained. Operational skills or service skills? In many cases, operators will be served well enough by the technical documentation that comes with the hoist. Here at Gorbel®, for example, we deliver our hoists with a very detailed Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual that includes an abundance of information on safely operating the hoist.
Service training can be a bit more complex. If your vendor provides one, a trip to the factory may not be a bad idea. At Gorbel®, we share the costs for these visits and hold classes every year for technicians who will install, maintain, and troubleshoot Gorbel® hoists.
Do you need still need a training solution?
Let’s discuss what it takes to build one.
Subject Matter Expertise and Why It's Critical
Building a custom training program is a big commitment of time and resources, especially because its quality will determine how safe your operation is. To ensure quality training, you'll need to have Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) available to help you along the way.
SMEs bring critical insights that ensure your training reflects real-world scenarios, integrates the latest safety protocols, and addresses the unique features of your hoist system. Take a moment now to assess the expertise available to you:
- Do you have on-staff or third-party Subject Matter Experts available?
- Are they well-versed in OSHA requirements related to the hoist?
- Do they possess deep knowledge of electricity, electronics, and electro-mechanical hoists?
- Are they experts in safety and ergonomics?
- Do they have sufficient knowledge of the technical details of your specific hoist?
If the answer to all these questions is yes, then your operation may be well-positioned to pursue a custom training program.
If not, we suggest you reconsider the training offered by your vendor. Remember that effective training for hoist operators and service technicians isn’t just about covering the basics — it’s about delivering instruction that’s accurate, relevant, and aligned with both regulatory standards and the specific equipment in use.
How to Create an Effective Learning Experience
Another major consideration when it comes to building a custom training program is Instructional Design, which deals with the learning experience itself. Leading Learning Experts Harold Stolovich and Erica Keeps capture the idea of Instructional Design well, saying, “Telling Ain’t Training.”
If you want your hoist training to stick, don’t just tell — teach.
Do you have an on-staff Instructional Designer? If not, consider contracting one. There are multiple ways to identify the right one for your needs. Gorbel® recommends local contractors who can get hands-on with your equipment. Whether you utilize someone on-staff or hire a contractor, consider the following:
- What are the knowledge and skills you want your learners to possess at the end of the training? These will become your Learning Objectives.
- Are your learning objectives measurable?
- What are the technical knowledge and skills every learner entering the training will possess?
- When and how will the training be delivered? Are there eLearning, video, or virtual options?
- Are there topics that are better taught on-the-job? Who is qualified to teach these topics?
- How will you test for comprehension and mastery? Written tests? Practical exams?
- Is there a certification that will result from the training?
- Are there topics that must be compliant with OSHA regulations? What about electrical safety? Ergonomic procedures?
- Who will your trainer be and what support will they need?
- What materials will your training program require?
- How will you get feedback on your training?
Gorbel® Tip: Use the answers to these questions along with your SMART Objectives [below] to create a comprehensive "Training Design" document.
Present this document along with additional research to your decision-makers.
Design Objectives that Drive Results
With your training framework taking shape, the next step is to define exactly what success looks like. Developing clear Learning Objectives around your training program will lay the foundation for evaluating effectiveness and collecting feedback.
Learning Objectives also provide insights into how you must test your learners For example, if your Learning Objective indicates that a learner must successfully troubleshoot problems in the hoist, it is nearly impossible to test that objective without having the instructor simulate a problem. Most knowledge-based Learning Objectives are more straightforward and can be evaluated with written exams or skills tests.
The SMART Model can help you determine your Learning Objectives:
| Specific Measurable Attainable Relevant Time-based |
Example SMART Objective: A trainee will demonstrate the ability to operate an electric chain hoist attached to an overhead crane 300 times an hour with 99.9% accuracy. |
Training content often informs your Learning Objectives. In the case of electric chain hoists, your best source of content will likely be the technical documentation from your Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Ask for the documentation that goes with your specific hoist, and don’t be afraid to supplement the material they provide to best prepare your learners for your work environment.
The Testing and Refinement Phase
Once all the elements for your training have been considered and approved, you can begin testing to ensure it performs as intended. Even the most well-crafted training can fall short if it hasn’t been tested. That’s why validating your program through structured testing phases is essential. These tests will not only help identify gaps in content or delivery, but also provide valuable feedback from both trainers and learners:
- Development Test – When the training is 75% complete, organize a trial run with your Subject Matter Experts and other stakeholders. Get their feedback and refine your subject matter, exercises, and delivery.
- Train-the-Trainer Session – When the content and exercises are 90% complete, run a Train-the-Trainer for anyone who will teach the finished course. Incorporate their feedback and preferences into a Pilot test.
- Pilot Test – When the training is 95% complete, run a Pilot test in which you engage actual learners. This offering should be taught by the trainer who will teach in the future, which is also valuable experience for them.
Training That Pulls Its Weight
No matter what training method you ultimately pursue, the goals will remain the same — training that prepares operators or service technicians with real-world skills, an understanding of regulatory standards, and the specific capabilities of your equipment.
By leveraging Subject Matter Expertise, thoughtful Instructional Design, and clearly defined Learning Objectives, you can create a training program that not only enhances safety and productivity but also empowers your team to operate with confidence and precision. In the end, the right training isn’t just a support tool — it’s a strategic advantage.
If you own a Gorbel® electric chain hoist and want to discuss your training project, fill out the form below. Our on-staff Instructional Designer will be glad to discuss what you’d like to accomplish with your training and advise you along the way.