7-17. Practical Know-How for Hazard Prediction Training (KYT) and How to Ensure Its Adoption on the Frontline

Danger Prediction Training (Kiken Yochi Training, or KYT) is a crucial method for proactively identifying potential risks and preventing accidents in the workplace. As a core component of EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) activities, it is widely adopted not only in manufacturing and construction but also across various industries. To prevent KYT from becoming a mere formality, practical know-how and methods for embedding it into daily operations are essential.

The Basic Steps of KYT

KYT's fundamental steps are: 1. Grasping the situation, 2. Identifying danger factors, 3. Planning countermeasures, and 4. Execution and review. The process is not just about listing dangers but involves a collective discussion using real-world worksites, photos, or illustrations as subjects. By using realistic scenarios, teams can devise specific and actionable safety measures.

Keys to Practical Implementation

Practical implementation focuses on three points: 1. Creating an environment where all participants can speak up proactively, 2. Training to deeply analyze "why something is dangerous," and 3. Prioritizing countermeasures. Creating an atmosphere where younger or less-experienced employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions is directly linked to fostering a safety culture. Supervisors should act as facilitators, guiding the discussion and drawing out voluntary insights rather than imposing conclusions.

Ensuring Continuity

Continuity is key to making KYT a permanent part of workplace culture. Integrating short KYT sessions into regular meetings or morning briefings makes it a daily habit. Furthermore, a system that recognizes and rewards excellent suggestions and insights can boost motivation.

The Role of Technology

Recently, digital technology has enhanced KYT. Using tablets to visualize dangerous areas or leveraging AI to predict risks can supplement traditional methods, allowing for more efficient danger prediction. For global companies, using multilingual KYT materials is crucial for sharing safety awareness across different cultural environments.

Summary

To succeed, Danger Prediction Training must prioritize effectiveness over formality and continuity over one-off efforts. By combining on-site practice with continuous improvement, KYT becomes a powerful tool for accident prevention and contributes significantly to cultivating a robust safety culture.