OSHA certification is an essential requirement in many workplaces. Many job postings also require job seekers to have OSHA certification. It’s not hard to see why.
Since 1971, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been helping workers recognize, prevent, and minimize workplace hazards through safety training.
If you’ve decided to enroll in an OSHA course, great! But what can you expect, and what should you do to complete the course and get your certification? We’ll let you know in this post.
But first;
What is OSHA certification?
OSHA certification indicates the successful completion of OSHA certificate-based programs. Students must complete 68 contact hours in the construction and general industry or 77 contact hours in the maritime industry.
When an employer requires an OSHA certification, it may also mean they want you to provide proof that you’ve completed OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 outreach training programs for general or construction industries.
Even though OSHA doesn’t certify trainees for 10 or 30 Hour OSHA courses, training companies will give you a card or certification as proof that you completed the program.
Tips for getting OSHA certification
Know your company or industry’s requirements
Don’t make the mistake of enrolling in an OSHA 10-hour course when your company requires you to complete an OSHA 30-hour course. You also have to choose between a general or a construction industry course.
If you work or are looking for a job in the construction industry, enroll in a construction industry course. OSHA general courses are for other industries other than construction.
Have access to a computer and internet connection
Some providers offer in-classroom training. Others provide online classes for which you’ll need a computer and an internet connection.
The computer must be reliable and the internet connection must be fast so you can easily access course materials and contact the course instructor or training provider if you need to.
Dedicate time and effort
One of the benefits of physical classes is that they offer little room for distractions and encourage discipline. However, time management is vital if you’re taking the course online.
Though easier said than done, create a study schedule and stick to it. It can be helpful to remind yourself that the course is for your safety and not just an achievement to boost your CV.
Pay attention to course requirements
OSHA 10-hour course is an entry-level program that covers topics such as hazard protection, fire prevention, dangers of equipment, and use of PPE.
OSHA 30 is more advanced and covers safety and health management, employee responsibility, industrial hygiene, and other topics. You’ll need to understand the requirements of each course to earn your certification.
Employ critical thinking skills
How was the situation in the workplace handled? Were safety protocols adhered to? What will you do if you find yourself in a similar scenario in the future?
Thinking critically and drawing from personal experiences will help you understand the course contents faster and better. You’ll also be able to retain what you’ve learned and implement it when the situation calls for it.
Don’t hesitate to communicate
Good communication skills are crucial onsite and during the course. Communicating with the course instructor will help you learn more safety guidelines that’ll come in handy in the workplace. Don’t understand an aspect of the course? Reach out to the instructor.
These tips will help you get the most out of your courses and ensure you get your OSHA certification. Whether you’re starting with the OSHA 10-Hour courses or taking the more advanced OSHA 30-Hour courses, ABC Safety Group has you covered.
We offer training programs in English and Spanish across various locations in NYC. Book a course with us now.