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Let’s imagine you are preparing to work in the construction or general industry. In that case, you've probably heard that you also need to get certified in the U.S. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workers in these sectors must complete OSHA training courses each year to enhance their understanding of workplace safety. Among the various training programs, the OSHA 10-Hour training is significant for entry-level workers. Since many people need it quickly for a new job, a common question is: How long is OSHA 10 training, and can you complete it in a day?

The answer is no. OSHA 10 training cannot legally be completed in one day. This guide discusses the original OSHA 10 course length and other relevant dos and don'ts. 

What Is OSHA 10 Training?

The OSHA 10 program is an introductory safety training course developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The program specifically caters to entry-level workers and also focuses on key safety skills. The common ones include hazard recognition, basic emergency procedures, workers' rights, and employer responsibilities. 

There are two primary versions of this course type: OSHA 10 Construction and OSHA 10 General Industry. While the topics vary slightly based on work environments, both courses include a minimum of ten hours of safety education.

OSHA created this program to make worksites safer, reduce job-related injuries and illnesses, and ensure all workers understand the fundamentals of job-site safety. Since many workplace accidents can be prevented through proper awareness, OSHA requires the course material to be covered in full, which is why the training time cannot be shortened.

Read More: What is OSHA Training? All You Need to Know

Can You Finish OSHA 10 in One Day?

The answer is no. According to OSHA’s 2024 regulations, the training is specifically limited to a maximum of 7.5 student contact hours. Moreover, the OSHA 10-hour classes must take a minimum of two calendar days. 

This rule helps prevent fatigue, supports learning retention, and protects the integrity of the program. Even if you try to complete the course online in one sitting, the system will stop you once you reach the daily limit.

Read More: OSHA 10 Certification Cost 

When Does the OSHA 10 Certificate Expire?

Knowing how long is OSHA 10 training isn’t enough because you must also know the expiration date of your certificate. While the OSHA 10 certification does not usually have an official expiration date, there are circumstances where specific state regulations or employers may require you to renew your training. Here are some of the key reasons you might need to refresh your OSHA 10 certification:

Employer Requirements

No federal rule in the U.S. requires you to renew your OSHA 10 certification. Yet, many employers require its renewal every 3-5 years. This ensures that you stay up-to-date on the latest safety practices and regulations. This specifically applies to industries like construction and manufacturing, where OSHA safety standards change frequently. 

State-Specific Regulations

A few states in the U.S. have their own rules for safety training. For instance, New York also has specific safety requirements beyond the OSHA 10 course. The New York City Department of Buildings has mandated that construction workers take additional safety training every 5 years. Connecticut also mandates the same rule for contractors on public building projects. 

Changing Job Roles or Industries

It’s always a good idea to take a fresh OSHA 10 course, if you switch to another job role or move into a different industry. Different industries and jobs come with different hazards, so you can take the OSHA 10 course again to make sure your safety knowledge matches the new environment. This also protects both you and your colleagues from any potential risks.

Personal Growth and Safety Awareness

As a worker, you always need to prioritize safety. OSHA 10 training is the best way to update your knowledge about safety practices. This, in turn, helps you recognize all kinds of workplace hazards and stay alert on the job. The ongoing learning also protects you and contributes to a safer workplace for everyone.

Read More: How Long Does The OSHA 30 Certification Last?

How to Obtain Your OSHA 10 Certification?

You must learn the steps to obtain your certification after learning how long is OSHA 10 training. The steps are quite straightforward, as mentioned below: 

Step 1: Research Well

Make sure to find only an OSHA-approved training provider and get started with the enrollment. Choose the online format because it's quite flexible and works well for you if you are a working professional and do not want fixed timelines. 

Step 2: Enroll in the Course

Once you have chosen the course provider and training format, enroll in the OSHA 10-hour course.  Usually, this process involves providing your name, email address, and payment method. A few providers may also offer discounts for early enrollment or group registration.

Step 3: Attend Training Sessions

You must actively participate in the program and make sure not to miss any sessions. The online OSHA 10 course will usually cover key safety principles, laws, and best practices for reducing workplace risks. The course also covers specific subjects divided into required, elective, and optional categories. 

Enroll in OSHA 10 Training Now! 

Knowing how long is OSHA 10 training can help you plan your schedule easily as you proceed with your career advancements. Since the course hardly takes 10 hours and doesn’t expire, unlike other certifications, it offers you the flexibility to enroll anytime. However, certain situations, potential employers, or state regulations may require you to recertify over time. It ensures you get the proper safety training you need and that your certification remains compliant with federal standards.

You can enroll in the OSHA 10 certification under Learntastic to leverage these benefits. It allows you to learn workplace safety standards, meet compliance requirements, and start your career in the industry of your choice. Enroll in this industry-approved training program to get certified now. 

FAQs

  1. How many times can I take the OSHA 10 test?

You are generally allowed up to three attempts to pass the final exam for OSHA 10 and 30 Outreach training courses. If you fail all three attempts, your course will be permanently locked. This also means you will no longer be able to continue or complete it.

  1. Is OSHA 10 hard to pass?

The difficulty level of the OSHA 10 course depends on your choice of acquiring the certification card. OSHA 10 is an entry-level training course that takes you 10 hours to complete. Once you understand the basics, you can easily pass the assessment in the first attempt.

  1. Is OSHA training worth it?

OSHA 10 and 30-hour training courses offer you and your workforce a multitude of benefits. Most importantly, you learn that safety should be the foundation of any workplace. This allows you to comply with safety regulations to ensure the well-being of your colleagues.

  1. Can OSHA 10 get you a job?

Earning either an OSHA 10 or 30-hour certificate can significantly enhance your job prospects and open doors to a variety of positions across different industries in the United States. 

References


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LearnTastic

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LearnTastic

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LearnTastic is a trusted leader in professional certification, offering expertly-designed online courses in OSHA training, physical therapy continuing education, caregiver certification, and more. Our flexible programs help professionals meet regulatory requirements, enhance skills and advance their careers. With a focus on practical, up-to-date learning, we empower professionals to thrive in their industries.