OSHA General Industry Safety Training Program for Employees

WorkWise’s 40‑minute course covers OSHA’s history, mission and enforcement powers; key general industry standards in 29 CFR 1910; differences between state and federal OSHA plans; worker rights under the OSH Act; reporting procedures for injuries and hazards; and employer responsibilities. It includes knowledge checks, a final quiz and a certificate of completion.

The OSHA Outreach Training Program is voluntary. It gives general awareness of workplace hazards. OSHA does not require completion of the 10- or 30-hour outreach courses to meet any specific standard. Some states or employers, however, may mandate the training. Employers must still provide any hazard-specific training required by law.

The 10-hour course is for entry-level workers and focuses on basic hazard recognition and worker rights. The 30-hour course provides more detailed training for supervisors and workers with safety duties. Both are voluntary outreach programs and do not by themselves satisfy all OSHA standard requirements.

Yes. OSHA-authorized providers offer online versions of the 10- and 30-hour outreach courses. To receive a valid Department of Labor card, the course must be taught by an OSHA-authorized trainer. Online training meets outreach program guidelines but does not replace any mandatory, job-specific training.

Yes. Students who finish an OSHA-authorized 10- or 30-hour general industry course receive a Department of Labor completion card. Cards are issued only when the training is delivered by an authorized trainer. These cards do not have an expiration date, though employers may require additional training.

OSHA publishes a list of authorized outreach trainers. Verify your instructor by checking OSHA’s list or contacting OSHA directly. Only authorized trainers may teach outreach courses and issue DOL cards.

The outreach courses provide general awareness and may be accepted by some states or employers. However, OSHA clarifies that outreach training does not meet the training required by specific OSHA standards. Employers must still give workers the job-specific training their tasks require.

Pick the course that matches your work hazards. General industry training covers 29 CFR 1910 and suits manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare, and service sectors. Construction training covers 29 CFR 1926 and is for building sites and related activities. Consult your employer if you are unsure which is right.

OSHA outreach cards do not expire. Employers, however, may require refresher training when job duties change or when hazards change. It is a good idea to update training whenever workplace conditions change.

Yes. Trainers must complete the OSHA Trainer Course in Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry at an OSHA Training Institute Education Center. Only trainers who meet these requirements may teach outreach courses and issue DOL cards.

Yes. Outreach courses are open to anyone who wants to learn about workplace hazards and worker rights. Job seekers, students, contractors, and volunteers commonly take these courses.

Employers must provide a workplace free from recognized serious hazards and comply with applicable OSHA standards. They must inspect conditions, maintain equipment, post warnings, use hazard communication, and provide safety training in languages employees understand. Training should address the specific hazards of the work being performed.

Report suspected fraud or misuse of OSHA cards to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General. OSHA asks learners to report unapproved trainers or fraudulent cards to protect workers.

Some OSHA-authorized providers may offer CEUs for outreach courses, but CEUs are not automatic. If you need CEUs, check with the training provider or accrediting organization before enrolling.