Guide · Updated 2026-09-29
What Is a RAG-Rated Training Matrix?
A RAG-rated training matrix uses red, amber and green to show training status at a glance — typically expired, due soon and current. The rating only helps if it is calculated from real dates and distinct from blank or not-required cells. Hand-coloured RAG is how spreadsheets go stale.
Quick answer
Use RAG as a status layer on top of dates: green for current, amber for expiring inside your warning window, red for expired, and a separate state for missing or not required. If someone has to paint cells before a meeting, the matrix is already behind.
Healthy RAG rules
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green / current | Evidence on file and expiry after the amber window |
| Amber / expiring | Still valid but inside the renewal lead time |
| Red / expired | Past expiry — not available as cover |
| Missing | Required but no date or file |
| Not required | Deliberately out of scope for that role |
Problems with manual RAG
- Colours updated after the fact for client screenshots
- Amber skipped because “we’ve booked something”
- Missing treated as green to avoid awkward conversations
- Different editors using different colour meanings
Operational use
- Agree amber windows per requirement family (cards often need longer).
- Filter red and missing before mobilisation.
- Review amber weekly with booking owners.
- Export RAG only from calculated status, not from a copied colour sheet.
Honest limits
FieldClear calculates current, expiring, expired and missing from the dates you enter. It does not decide which requirements the law demands. RAG is a visualisation, not accreditation or a competence certificate. Not legal advice.
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