OSHA Certification: What You Should Know

OSHA certification is frequently required for work in the construction and maritime industries. Job postings are likely to state that applicants must have an OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification to be considered. But what exactly is a certification, and do you really need one? Continue reading to learn everything you need to know.

What exactly is OSHA certification?

If a potential employer requests that you be OSHA 10 or 30 certified, it signifies that you have completed an OSHA Outreach Training Program course. Depending on the course module, graduates receive a 10-hour or 30-hour OSHA completion card.

Despite its name, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration does not give OSHA safety certification. This is due to the fact that courses are entirely optional. Some towns and states may demand training as a condition of employment, but OSHA does not. None of the program's courses are considered certification. That said, companies and workers often use the terms "OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 certification" when referring to the Outreach training.

OSHA 10 Certification

The 10-hour OSHA certification course is meant for general industry workers. The course teaches them to identify, avoid, prevent, and abate job-related hazards at work. The module covers many different general industry safety and health hazards a worker may encounter, with emphasis on hazard avoidance, identification, and prevention and control. There is also a specific type of OSHA 10 certification course for construction workers.

OSHA 30 Certification

The 30-hour OSHA safety certification course trains workers and supervisors on safety responsibility, with emphasis on hazard identification, control, prevention, and avoidance, in addition to OSHA standards.

Both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 training covers employer responsibilities, how to file a complaint, and workers’ rights under OSHA.

How long is the OSHA certification valid?

Completion cards do not expire, but it is recommended that you undergo OSHA outreach safety training every four to five years. That way, you can stay up to date with the latest industry practices and safety regulations. Just be sure to consult with local regulatory authorities to know more about training guidelines that may be specific to your state or municipality.

Getting OSHA certification

Whether you require an OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification, be sure to find credible and established training programs offered by reputable companies. This will give you access to all of the latest knowledge that is essential to your industry. Classes can cover a wide range of topics, such as fall protection, OSHA construction, HAZWOPER, and excavation.

Impact Safety is a comprehensive safety source trusted by discerning businesses in all fields and industries looking to create a compliant and safe work environment while reducing risks in their workplace. We offer training and OSHA safety certification to get yourself and your workers certified. We provide 10-hour and 30-hour training if you require both or either service.

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