OSHA 10-Hour Training: 2026 Beginner’s Guide to DOL Cards

Starting a new job in the skilled trades is exciting, but it also comes with its own set of risks. The OSHA 10 hour training program is the starting point for many workers to gain this critical knowledge. It’s a foundational safety course from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) designed to teach entry level workers how to recognize, avoid, and prevent common job site hazards. Understanding these basics isn’t just a good idea, it’s a critical step in building a long and healthy career.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this foundational safety program, from the core concepts it covers to the practical steps for getting your official DOL card.

What is the OSHA Outreach Training Program?

The OSHA 10 hour training course is part of the broader OSHA Outreach Training Program. This program does not provide certifications, but rather it provides foundational knowledge about workplace safety and health hazards. Think of it as Safety 101 for your new career. Upon completion, you receive a Department of Labor (DOL) card that shows you have completed the training.

The program’s main goal is to teach you how to recognize, avoid, control, and prevent common job site hazards. It also provides a clear overview of your rights as a worker and your employer’s responsibilities to keep you safe. While OSHA doesn’t federally mandate this training for all workers, many states, cities, and employers require it before you can set foot on a job site, especially in construction.

Who is This Training For?

The OSHA 10 hour training is specifically tailored for the entry level worker. This means it’s perfect for new hires, apprentices, or anyone starting a career in an industry like construction or general manufacturing. Statistics show why this focus is so important: employees in their first year on the job account for a large portion of all workplace injuries. This training provides a solid safety foundation right from day one, helping to dramatically reduce that risk.

Which OSHA 10 Hour Course Should I Take?

The Outreach Training Program is not a single course. It is tailored to different work environments. The most common courses are for Construction and General Industry.

Construction

This is the most popular version of the training. It is intended for workers involved in construction, demolition, and building projects. Topics are focused on common construction site hazards like falls from heights, electrical dangers, and being struck by objects.

General Industry

This course is for workers in most other industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare, and retail. It covers broader safety and health topics relevant to those environments, such as machine guarding, hazard communication, and walking working surfaces.

Other Industries

OSHA also offers specialized training for Maritime (for shipyard and marine terminal workers) and a Disaster Site Worker course for those involved in response and cleanup operations.

Is OSHA 10 Hour Training Required?

At the federal level, OSHA does not require every worker to complete 10 hour training. However, many employers make it a company policy. Additionally, several states and some cities have passed laws mandating the training for certain workers, particularly for construction jobs on public works projects.

States that require OSHA 10 hour training for some workers include:

• Connecticut

• Massachusetts

• Missouri

• Nevada

• New Hampshire

• New York

• Pennsylvania

• Rhode Island

• West Virginia

Because requirements can change, you should always check the specific rules for your state and city, as well as the policies of your employer.

Core Safety Topics in Your Training

A huge part of the OSHA 10 hour training revolves around learning to see the workplace through a safety lens. The program is designed to be participatory, with hands on activities and discussions. Trainers can also tailor certain elective topics to address the specific hazards of your job site.

Hazard Identification, Avoidance, and Prevention

The training begins with the most critical step: hazard identification. This is the process of finding things at work that could cause harm before they hurt someone. Once a hazard is identified, the course covers:

• Hazard Avoidance: Actively steering clear of known dangers, like maintaining a safe distance from overhead power lines.

• Hazard Control: Taking steps to reduce risk from a hazard that can’t be eliminated, using a system known as the hierarchy of controls.

• Hazard Prevention: Using proactive measures, such as regular equipment maintenance, to stop hazards from ever occurring.

Key Subjects Covered

Your training will cover a range of specific, critical safety topics.

• Fall Protection: Falls are a leading cause of death in construction. This topic covers the proper use of guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems. For rooftop and ladder scenarios, see our roofing safety fundamentals for real world tips.

• Electrical Safety: This training covers safe work practices, grounding, and procedures like Lockout and Tagout to de energize equipment. For practical checklists you can use in the field, visit our technical support for field techs category.

• Walking Working Surfaces: This is about preventing slips, trips, and falls on the same level, covering standards for floors, stairs, and ladders. Get site specific checklists in our property maintenance safety tips.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When hazards can’t be engineered out, PPE is your last line of defense. This includes gear like hard hats, gloves, and respirators. Explore our safety articles for deeper guidance.

• Hazard Communication (HazCom): Often called the “Right to Know” law, this standard ensures you are informed about dangerous chemicals you might work with.

• Machine Guarding: This teaches you to recognize the dangers of moving parts and ensure that proper guards are in place. See examples in our mechanical systems training.

• Ergonomics: This is the science of fitting the job to the worker to prevent musculoskeletal disorders like back pain. Start with our ergonomics tips for apartment maintenance technicians.

Your Rights and Responsibilities on the Job

A core part of the OSHA 10 hour training is empowering you with knowledge about your rights and your employer’s obligations.

Employer Responsibility

Under OSHA’s General Duty Clause, every employer must provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards. This means they are responsible for following all OSHA standards, providing necessary training, supplying required PPE at no cost to you, and keeping accurate records of injuries and illnesses.

Worker Rights

You have the right to a safe workplace. This includes the right to:

• Receive safety training in a language you understand.

• Be provided with required safety gear.

• Request an OSHA inspection if you believe there are serious hazards.

• Report a work related injury or illness without fear of retaliation.

If you believe your workplace is unsafe and your employer is not addressing the issue, you have the right to file a confidential complaint with OSHA. It is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for reporting safety concerns.

Building a Workplace Culture of Safety

True safety goes beyond just following rules. It involves creating a culture where everyone is proactive. Key components of a safe workplace include:

• Safety and Health Program: A formal program employers can implement to find and fix workplace hazards before they cause injury or illness.

• Emergency Action Plan (EAP): A written document that details what workers should do in an emergency like a fire, chemical spill, or natural disaster.

• Exit Route (Means of Egress): Every workplace must have a clear, unobstructed path for everyone to escape safely during an emergency.

Getting Your OSHA 10 Card: The Logistics

Ready to get started with your OSHA 10 hour training? Here’s what you need to know.

Finding an Authorized Trainer

OSHA courses are not taught by OSHA staff but by authorized trainers who have at least five years of safety experience and complete a rigorous trainer course. You can find local trainers through OSHA’s online database.

Avoiding Fraud: Verify Your Trainer

Unfortunately, there has been a rise in fraudulent OSHA training cards. Before signing up for a course, you should:

• Check the Watch List: Review the Outreach Trainer Watch List on OSHA’s website to ensure your potential trainer has not been suspended.

• Verify Authorization: Use OSHA’s online trainer portal to confirm the trainer is currently authorized.

• Report Fraud: If you suspect a trainer is not following program rules, you can file a confidential complaint with OSHA.

Online and Multilingual Training

For maximum convenience, many people now choose to complete their OSHA 10 hour training online. Platforms like SkillCat partner with authorized providers to offer the full course online, allowing you to learn at your own pace. This is a great way to get your card without the scheduling conflicts of in person classes.

Additionally, to ensure all workers can understand this vital information, quality training providers often offer their courses in both English and Spanish to make safety accessible to everyone.

What if I Lose My Card?

Losing your OSHA card can happen. You can request a replacement, but you must contact the original trainer or training provider who taught your class. There is usually a small fee and a time limit, typically within 5 years of your original training date, so it’s best to act quickly.

Why OSHA 10 Training is a Smart First Step

Completing your OSHA 10 hour training is more than just checking a box. It equips you with the fundamental knowledge to protect yourself and your coworkers on the job. It shows employers you are serious about safety and gives you the confidence to speak up when you see a hazard.

While the OSHA 10 card can make you a more attractive candidate and is required for some jobs, it does not guarantee employment. Think of it as a critical first step that opens doors and proves your commitment to a safe work environment, giving you a competitive edge.

By investing just a few hours in this training, you’re making a long term investment in your own well being and career success. If you’re heading into HVAC or refrigeration, your next stop is EPA 608. See our EPA certification resources.

Frequently Asked Questions about OSHA 10 Hour Training

Is OSHA 10 hour training required by law?

At the federal level, no. However, some states (like New York, Massachusetts, and Nevada) and many employers mandate it for certain jobs, particularly in construction.

How long is my OSHA 10 card good for?

Technically, the federal OSHA 10 card does not expire. However, some employers, states, or local jurisdictions may require you to retake the training every 3 to 5 years to stay current on safety standards.

Is the OSHA 10 a certification?

No. The OSHA 10 hour course is a safety training program. It does not provide a certification or license. It results in a completion card from the Department of Labor.

What is the difference between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30?

The OSHA 10 hour training is designed for entry level workers and provides a basic awareness of job site safety. The OSHA 30 hour course is more comprehensive and is intended for supervisors and workers with safety responsibilities.

Can I take the OSHA 10 hour training online?

Yes, you can. OSHA has authorized a select number of providers to offer the 10 hour course online. This is a convenient option that allows you to complete the training at your own pace.

How much does the training cost?

Costs can vary depending on the provider. In person classes might range from $75 to $200. Online courses are often more affordable, with providers like SkillCat offering partner provided OSHA 10 hour training for around $50.