Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton

Mention safety in most any work environment and you're bound to hear someone say: "Nobody moves, nobody gets hurt." Unfortunately, many people do suffer injuries while on the job. Human error is often a factor in these incidents, meaning there are many opportunities in safety education, and safety enforcement.

While there are dozens of safety training courses available, few lead to automatic employment. Often, safety skills are complimentary to other more specific position-related skills. But don't be discouraged, safety knowledge can be transferred anywhere. And the fact you set out on your own to take the training shows potential employers you have, at the very least, initiative. (Some businesses will pay for your training so be sure to consult the employer about qualifications before registering for a safety course.)

The following is a look at some of the courses available that may increase your opportunities for employment in certain areas, or at least give you a jump start on someone with similar credentials. (More advanced, and train-the-trainer courses are available for those with work experience as well.)

Babysitter's Safety Course -- While not for everyone, the course looks at topics such as home and outdoor safety, injury prevention, fire safety and first aid. With this course under your belt, babysitting may well become your first job.

First Aid in Child Care -- If anyone's considering working in a daycare, or dayhome, this course delivers sound information on standard first aid, and child and infant CPR.

WHMIS -- This acronym stands for Workplace Hazardous Material Information System, which is in itself a safety awareness system. While many companies offer this training internally, taking it on your own may give you a leg up if you're looking at working as a film processor, or in the janitorial field.

H2S Alive -- This course is mandatory for almost any field position in the oil and gas industry. Upon completion of the course, you'll be able to recognize issues surrounding H2S (hydrogen sulphide) - a poisonous compound -- and learn basic rescue techniques.

Transportation of Dangerous Goods -- Work as a shipper/receiver, or courier, could become more likely with this course under your belt. The course covers distinguishing classifications of goods, what documentation is required for various goods, and consequences of unsafe handling.

Forklift Operator Safety Training Program -- This course could prove invaluable to those considering working with a forklift, or in a warehouse. With classroom and hands-on components, the course will not only make you aware of safety issues surrounding forklift operations, but allow you some valuable time operating a forklift.

Aerial Work Platform -- This course looks at safety issues surround driving and working with vehicles mounted with a sissor lift, such as driving with the boom lowered. Those working in pruning, warehousing, and at sign companies often use these vehicles.

Construction Safety Training System -- Available at the Youth Employment Centre, this work-alone training covers topics such as workplace hazards, personal protective equipment, ladders and scaffolding. The program is ideal for any of the construction trades.

These courses, and many others, are offered by dozens of companies around the province, although prices may vary. The Yellow Pages provide contact numbers for the course, or courses, you're interested in pursuing.

Costs for some of these courses may also be tax deductible for students if taken through a certified educational institution under the Income Tax Act, such as the Alberta Safety Council www.safetycouncil.ab.ca. Contact Revenue Canada to explain your situation and verify whether or not you can claim the course tuition on your taxes.