OSHA 10 hours is a course that teaches basic safety and health information to entry-level workers in both the construction and general industries.
It is part of the OSHA Outreach Training Program, which aims to reduce workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities by raising awareness of common hazards, workers’ rights and employer responsibilities.
In this article, we will explain what OSHA 10-hour training covers, which people need it, how to best get it and the benefits of earning an OSHA 10 card.
What Does the OSHA 10 Hours Training Cover?
OSHA 10 hours covers a variety of topics related to occupational safety and health, exactly what is covered depends on the industry sector.
The course consists of an introduction to OSHA, followed by specific modules that address relevant issues for workers in construction or general industry.
The following table shows example modules that would likely be covered in each course:
OSHA 10-Hour Construction | OSHA 10-Hour General Industry |
Introduction to OSHA | Introduction to OSHA |
Focus Four Hazards (fall protection, electrical, struck-by and caught-in/between) | Walking-working surfaces |
Health hazards in construction | Exit routes, emergency action plans and fire prevention plans |
Cranes, derricks, hoists, elevators and conveyors | Electrical |
Stairways and ladders | Personal protective equipment (PPE) |
Hand and power tools | Hazard communication |
Scaffolds | Bloodborne pathogens |
Excavations | Ergonomics |
Materials handling, storage, use and disposal | Machine guarding |
Each course can also include two hours of elective topics chosen by the training provider from a list of options provided by OSHA. These topics may vary depending on the specific needs and interests of the workers, for example manufacturing or food industry specific topics.
A key module of both 10 hour courses is About OSHA, which provides and introduction to OSHA and outlines your rights and responsibilities as an employee.
Who Needs OSHA 10 Hours Training?
OSHA 10-hour training is designed for entry-level workers in construction and general industry who may be exposed to workplace hazards on the job. While the OSHA Outreach Training Program is voluntary at the federal level, some employers may require their workers to complete OSHA 10 hours as part of their safety policy or contract agreement.
Additionally, some states, cities and local jurisdictions have enacted laws or regulations that mandate OSHA 10-hour training for certain workers or projects. For example, New York State requires all workers on public work projects of $250,000 or more to have an OSHA 10 card. Other states that have similar requirements include Connecticut, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.
To find out if you need OSHA 10 hours training for your job or location, you should check with your employer, your union representative or your local OSHA office.
As a further example, some states my require confined space safety training, this is not usually covered in the 10 hour courses.
How Do I Get OSHA 10 hours Training?
To get OSHA 10 certified, you need to enroll in a course offered by an authorized trainer.
Authorized trainers are individuals who have completed the OSHA Trainer Course in their respective industry sector and have been approved by OSHA to conduct outreach training.
You can find authorized trainers online through the OSHA Training Institute Education Centers or through other reputable providers.
You can also ask your employer or your union if they offer or sponsor OSHA 10-hour training for their workers.
OSHA 10 hours can be delivered either in person or online. In-person training involves attending a session with an authorized trainer and other worker participants. Online training involves completing a self-paced course on a computer or mobile device with interactive content and quizzes.
Both formats have their advantages and disadvantages. In-person training allows you to interact with the trainer and other workers, ask questions and get appropriate feedback. Online training lets you learn at your own pace, schedule and location, plus there are no travel costs or time constraints.
Regardless of the format you choose, you need to complete the course within six months from the start date and pass a final exam with a score of at least 70%. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive an official OSHA 10 card from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that certifies your achievement.
What Are the Benefits of an OSHA 10 Certificate?
Earning an OSHA 10 certificate has several benefits for both workers and employers. Here are some of them:
- It demonstrates your commitment to safety and health in your workplace.
- It enhances your knowledge and skills on how to prevent accidents and injuries on the job.
- It increases your awareness of your rights and responsibilities as a worker under OSHA.
- It helps you comply with OSHA standards and regulations that apply to your industry.
- It may qualify you for employment opportunities or promotions that require OSHA 10-hour training.
- It may reduce your workers’ compensation costs and insurance premiums as a result of fewer incidents and claims.
Concusion
OSHA 10 hour training is a valuable course that can help you improve your safety and health performance, protect yourself and others from harm, and advance your career. Whether you are a construction worker, a factory worker, a health care professional or any other general industry worker, you can benefit from learning the basics of occupational safety and health with OSHA 10.
In addition to the ten hour training, many workplaces also require mandated blood-borne pathogens training – see here for more information.
If you are interested in taking OSHA 10-hour training, you can find an authorized trainer online or through your employer or union. You can choose between in-person or online training, depending on your preference and availability. Once you complete the course and pass the exam, you will receive an OSHA 10 card that proves your accomplishment. You can also learn how to prepare for an OSHA ten hour test if you are intrested.
