Construction was recently listed in the top 10 most dangerous jobs in America by CNBC. So when it comes to day-to-day operations, what can construction managers do to ensure workers receive the information they need to produce quality work and stay safe on the job? One company, MindForge, is doing just that. Its platform is designed to unite construction organizations, simplify workforce communication and maximize performance quality with tools that keep job sites safe, efficient, and connected. By studying behavioral, motivational and systematic issues related to serious injuries and fatalities on construction jobs, MindForge has developed a mobile-based communication platform that supports safety, quality, and productivity. Its browser-based technology platform communicates with desktop, web, and mobile devices in order to bridge the disconnect between the home office and front-line workforce, equipping workers with the knowledge, skills, and information that empower them to avoid hazards and do great work.In order to take command of construction projects and reach the next level in safety and quality, it’s critical to engage the front-line workforce. Firms must deploy engaging training that makes a lasting impact and deliver information in ways that workers will respond positively to. MindForge provides a framework, inspired by the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), that workers can apply when facing an unusual situation or uncommon issues. MindForge specifically targets relevant hazards a worker will encounter while they perform tasks on a job.

Firms should also consider the importance of timing. If you learn something that you can’t put into practice right away, it may be difficult to recall that information when you finally need to use it. MindForge places training within the context of the job site, which helps the material come alive and allows workers to see the direct application of that material. The digital platform also allows for “just-in-time” content, delivered either close to when the workers will perform related tasks or as a refresher right after a worker has experienced the task.

In order to deliver the most value to construction professionals, MindForge has created training modules that are succinct and specific. Breaking training down into smaller pieces makes it easier for workers and teams to select courses that apply to their work each day. With short, direct lessons, you give workers the opportunity to digest information quickly so that important material isn’t lost within hours of training that is delivered all at once.

One of the best tactics to ensure your training is effective is to make it as experiential as possible. You should place workers in controlled situations they might eventually face, doing the tasks expected of them while facing potential job hazards they could see on the job. Using specific job site videos or 3-D simulations can help you create these immersive experiences without putting anyone in danger. For example, the MindForge platform offers a 3-D simulation of a scissor lift safety “hazard hunt” which tests the workers by having them identify all of the potential hazards on a job site, such as tilt, unsafe conditions and proximity to power lines, and how to mitigate those risks. Rather than using a slideshow, MindForge trains using immersive experiences, like having the workforce identify the proper fire extinguisher based on the type of simulated fire. This technique allows workers to actively engage while learning necessary techniques like P.A.S.S. (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep).

Moreover, offering a variety of training styles gives workers the opportunity to learn however they learn best. Similarly, offering the same material in different ways can make repeated instruction more interesting and help the material reach trainees in new ways each time. Our material is offered in the form of relevant stories that resonate: practical, real-life scenarios. For example, the Construction LifeSaver (CLS) is MindForge’s series of digital training, delivered via the CLS desktop or mobile application. CLS courses focus on interactive, hazard-based training that highlights the tasks, exposures, and scenarios workers encounter in their day-to-day jobs on a construction site.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of the MindForge platform is the establishment of a solid line of communication to the front line that allows project leaders to efficiently send timely information and training to the workforce. The comprehensive communication hub simplifies the communication process and allows for consistent messaging and expectations for everyone involved in the project. The fact is when it comes to safety and quality, everyone needs to be on the same page from top to bottom.

Further, investing in tools to help support safety initiatives shows that a business cares about its workers, enforcing a stronger safety culture within the company. This can improve your recruiting ability, as well as your bottom line.

MindForge facilitates the management of this highly fluid workforce, and is designed to integrate the entire organization from the home office to the front line by capturing and storing records for orientation, training, certifications, equipment inspections, toolbox talks and more, indefinitely. One function of the platform allows you to quickly deploy important announcements, messages and alerts to the entire workforce with the push of a button while another function manages employee profiles and teams. Quality, speed, and safety all increase when workers get to do the things they are confident in doing. Having a system to track workers’ skills and preferred tasks goes a long way in making sure everyone is operating at their highest level. It can be difficult to engage construction workers due to localized environments with constant deadlines. Content that is engaging, relevant and enjoyable helps make construction projects more efficient, profitable and ultimately safe.

MindForge offers a new and safer way to work. The holistic communication and training hub helps protect a company’s bottom line through various efficiencies and improvements across quality, culture and time and ultimately, saves lives. As we look ahead, we recognize the potential of technology to significantly decrease the rate of serious injuries and fatalities within the industry while making construction projects more efficient and profitable, benefiting the industry as a whole.