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#1 Posted : 17 March 2008 06:05:00(UTC)
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Posted By P. Moore Dear All I have been advised that I may have to deliver some health and safety training to some of our employees in India in the near future. Does anyone have any guidance with respect to any cultural sensitivities that should be taken account of when designing the training? Kind regards Paul
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#2 Posted : 17 March 2008 09:21:00(UTC)
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Posted By Ian G Hutchings Hi Paul There are several cultural nuances that I probably couldn't cover in full, you'll need to refer to a local contact. Religious and other aspects can vary greatly depending on location. One thing I did find in India was that the system of management, hierarchy and respect in some ways is quite subservient. You may find that people will go along with what you say and be very positive, but not always understand what your expectations are. After any training there will need to be some follow up (as is the case for anywhere) and checking that people are happy to do what has been agreed. You will need to understand who the influencers are on site or at the business and respect their position. See if you can speak with local contacts first and use their local knowledge and advice. If traveling alone, please make sure you have local contacts to meet you. The driving is interesting at times! All the best Ian
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#3 Posted : 17 March 2008 09:57:00(UTC)
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Posted By David Bannister Paul, I think Ian has given you good advice to which I would add: Never under-estimate the physical hardships of working in the Indian climate. You will be like a wet rag at the end of every day, unless you spend the entire time in air conditioned rooms. If the local management are committed to what you are doing your message will be applied and enforced. If not, you will be wasting time, so ensure they are fully aware, understand and support you. If traveling between two or more sites, expect delays. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE YOURSELF. Allow a full recovery day after you arrive. Enjoy your trip.
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#4 Posted : 17 March 2008 12:31:00(UTC)
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Posted By Jay Joshi India is a vast country--its regional and cultural diversity can be compared with Europe--except there is a bridging language--English Similarly, it depends upon the culture, including safety culture of organisation you may be imparting training. Some with world class performance exist in India with some of the worst. In a nutshell, it is a country with extremes of almost everything imaginable! I doubt anyone inexperienced in driving on Indian roads will even attempt to drive. The heat coupled with humidity can be extremely uncomfortable,but it depends where you are. You could priovide me with more information by e-mail regarding the company/locations you will impart training --I am not a consultant etc, Ih ave a salaried job here therefore there is no conflict of interests.I have studied & worked in India from 1975 to 1990.
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#5 Posted : 17 March 2008 21:34:00(UTC)
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Posted By P. Moore Thank you to you all for these contributions. It has been much appreciated.
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