The Definition of OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training

Definition of OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training

OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 are courses in OSHA's Outreach Training Program, a voluntary program that teaches workers to recognize, avoid and report workplace hazards. The 10-hour course is aimed at entry-level workers, while the 30-hour course is designed for supervisors and workers with safety responsibilities. Courses are offered for construction, general industry and other sectors, are taught by OSHA-authorized trainers, and end with a Department of Labor wallet card for students who complete them.

Key Facts About OSHA 10 and OSHA 30

• Outreach training is hazard awareness training, not a certification, and it does not replace the task-specific training OSHA standards require.
• The federal completion card does not expire, although some employers, unions and states require refresher training.
• Several states, such as New York, Nevada and Massachusetts, require OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 for certain construction or public works jobs.
• Courses can be delivered in person or online through OSHA-authorized providers.

Example of OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training

A general contractor requires every worker on its sites to hold an OSHA 10 Construction card and every foreman to complete OSHA 30 Construction, then supplements those courses with site-specific fall protection and excavation training.

OSHA 10 vs. OSHA 30

• Audience: OSHA 10 is for entry-level workers; OSHA 30 is for supervisors and safety staff.
• Depth: OSHA 30 covers more topics in greater detail, including safety program management.
• Common topics: the Focus Four hazards, PPE, hazard communication and worker rights.

Related Terms

• Orientation (Safety Orientation)
• Training Matrix
• Competent Person
• OSHA

Track training cards and expirations with SafetyIQ's training management software.

Frequently Asked Questions: OSHA 10 and OSHA 30

Is OSHA 10 required by federal law?

No. Federal OSHA doesn't require Outreach training, but some states, cities, project owners and employers do.

Does an OSHA 30 card make someone a competent person?

No. A competent person must be able to identify hazards for a specific task and have authority to correct them, which usually requires task-specific training and experience.

How can I tell if an OSHA card is real?

Genuine cards are issued through OSHA-authorized trainers or training providers, and those providers can verify that the student completed the course.