What is the Best OSHA Training Course for Me?

The first step in figuring out what OSHA training course you should take is investigating the OSHA courses available and making an informed choice from that point on. Read on as we break down each option to help you make an informed decision.

Forms of safety training is an important aspect of many workplaces and helps to save lives and reduce injuries on the job. It is common for workers to ask OSHA trainers or training companies what course would best meet their needs.

Unfortunately, this is a question best addressed by employers. As employers are responsible by law to provide work free of hazards (and to communicate any responsibilities) it remains the best policy for both parties to collaborate to get to the bottom of what training is required.

Is OSHA 10 or 30 Training Required?

Although OSHA Outreach training is a voluntary program, workers are not required by OSHA to take the training – however, it may be required by your employer, union, and your state or local jurisdiction to take OSHA 10-hour or OSHA 30-hour training.

Always confirm with your employer or local government agency that you are properly trained.

OSHA safety training is helpful for all workers. A 10-hour or 30-hour OSHA Outreach training is a common baseline introduction offered by employers to employees of potential safety hazards contributed to – or protections afforded under – OSHA.

Upon completing this course, your employer may require you to receive training regarding specific hazards present in your work environment.

Do I Need Construction or General Industry OSHA Training?

There are two types of online OSHA training available – Construction Industry and General Industry – and they each include specialized topics based on the selected industry. Most importantly, talk to your employer, they will know which version of Outreach training you will need. OSHA’s definition of “construction work” includes work for construction, alteration and/or repair, including painting and decorating.

General Industry is any industry that is not construction, maritime, or agriculture. That might include (but is not limited to) health care, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution and retail.

Because these descriptions are taken directly from OSHA standards, they are the best guide in determining which course will best suit your job. However, another route is to look at the types of topics that each course tackles, then see which are more relevant to the types of workplaces you’ll be in. Be sure to supplement with OSHA Compliance Training or on-the-job training, if the course you choose does not include a sufficient coverage of any essential topics that will confront you at a worksite.

OSHA 10-Hour Or OSHA 30-Hour?

For many entry-level workers, the 10-Hour OSHA training is all that is needed, however, if you need more specific training, you should check with what your workplace requires.

30-Hour OSHA training is often recommended for supervisors; site leads or managers who are going to have any type of responsibilities regarding the safety. In addition to diving deeper into the material, the 30-Hour training covers broader topics.

Do you still have questions regarding which OSHA course, OSHA 10-hour or OSHA 30-hour, could be ideal for you or your employees? Please feel free to contact the knowledgeable staff at Safety Counselling, who are ready to assist in any way possible!