The Learning Pyramid: Why Training Retention Matters in Safety

At Premier Safety Resources (PSR), we understand that safety is more than just having the right rules and procedures. It’s about ensuring that workers truly understand and retain what they learn—so they can apply it under pressure, in the field, where it counts most.

One of the most effective ways to explain this is through the Learning Pyramid, a model that shows how people absorb knowledge differently depending on how the training is delivered.

Understanding the Learning Pyramid

The Learning Pyramid breaks training methods into seven levels, each with an estimated average retention rate:

• Lecture – 5% retention

• Reading – 10%

• Audio/Visual – 20%

• Demonstration – 30%

• Discussion Group – 50%

• Practice by Doing – 75%

• Teach Others – 90%

  
  

At the narrow top of the pyramid, retention is very low when learning is passive, such as listening to a lecture. As you move toward the wide base, retention improves dramatically when learning becomes active—through discussion, practice, and teaching.

Why This Matters in Safety Training

In high-risk industries like construction, energy, and pipelines, this insight is critical. Workers who only receive safety information through lectures or PowerPoints may quickly forget details. But when they practice by doing—like walking through excavation procedures, using lockout/tagout systems, or performing hands-on confined space drills—the knowledge sticks.

Even better, when experienced workers teach others, they not only pass on their knowledge but reinforce their own. This creates a ripple effect where safety culture spreads naturally through peer-to-peer learning.

From Concept to Culture

PSR integrates the Learning Pyramid into our training and workforce development programs by:

• Building interactive sessions that go beyond one-way presentations.

• Encouraging group discussions in toolbox talks, so crews can share insights.

• Creating hands-on opportunities where employees practice skills in real-world scenarios.

• Promoting mentorship and teaching, where supervisors and seasoned workers guide new team members.

  
  

This approach transforms training from a compliance exercise into a living culture of safety—one where workers remember what they learn and apply it consistently.

A Visual Reminder

To help teams understand and remember this concept, PSR uses a Learning Pyramid infographic:

• A clean, professional pyramid with seven horizontal layers.

• Each level is labeled with its retention rate and learning method.

• A gradient color flow from warm orange/red at the top to cool blue/green at the bottom, symbolizing improved retention.

• Flat, safety-related icons in each section (a book, a video screen, a demonstration figure, discussion bubbles, tools, and a teaching figure).

• A simple, clear title: “The Learning Pyramid: Building Safer Teams Through Training.”

  
  

This visual is easy to use in presentations, toolbox talks, and safety blogs—it’s a constant reminder that how we train matters as much as what we train.

The Importance of Engagement

Engagement is key in any training program. When workers are actively involved, they are more likely to retain information. This is especially true in safety training. Engaging methods can include role-playing scenarios or simulations that mimic real-life situations.

Creating Real-World Scenarios

By creating real-world scenarios, workers can practice their skills in a safe environment. This hands-on experience is invaluable. It allows them to make mistakes and learn from them without the risk of injury.

Feedback and Improvement

Feedback is another crucial component. After training sessions, it’s important to gather feedback from participants. This helps identify what worked well and what could be improved. Continuous improvement is essential for effective training.

Conclusion

The Learning Pyramid teaches us a simple truth: people remember best when they are engaged, active, and teaching others. At PSR, we’ve built this principle into everything we do—from classroom instruction to on-the-job training and mentorship.

Because safety training isn’t about checking a box—it’s about saving lives, protecting assets, and building stronger teams.

🔗 Learn more about our mission at www.psrok.com