Time to hit the books! For those of us in the construction industry (and others that have an inherently higher risk), safety is always a paramount concern. Ensuring employees are fully and properly trained is job #1. OSHA is the gold standard of safety and health-related information and training. What do you need to know – and how can an OSHA study guide help you learn it?
- What OSHA Is – and Why It’s Important
While many people regard safety and health programs as yet more hoops to jump through as we go on about our work, the reality is that proper training is essential in preventing accidents, injuries, and illnesses in the workplace. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employees are entitled to a safe and healthful work environment; all employers that fall under the Occupational Health and Safety Administration purview must provide sufficient education and training and make sure recognized risks are mitigated or eliminated.
Since OSHA was established in 1971, it has reduced workplace fatalities by an astonishing 60 percent and occupational injury and illness rates by 40 percent. This is significant. It is not overly dramatic to say that it is, indeed, a matter of life and death in some circumstances. Industries like construction and manufacturing, for example, are inherently risky. Every and any measure we can take to keep our teams safe is well worth it.
- Industry-Specific Safety and Health Information
As mentioned, OSHA plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and health of employees in a range of industries, from healthcare to retail to construction and manufacturing. The fact is that virtually everyone with a job faces some type of risk! It could be anything from pathogens to slip-and-fall situations, or being struck by hazards. Access the OSHA study guide that pertains to your (or your employees’) job and the risks they may face in performing their duties. This offers them the real, practical information they need to stay safe on the job.
- Critical Content for Exams
Now, contrary to popular belief, there is no “OSHA certification,” per se. That said, there are many standards that pertain to employers in terms of training their people in specific safety-related aspects of their work. OSHA doesn’t issue “requirements,” but rather offers “guidelines” for trainings. Determining what the proper training is is up to the employers. Employees can also earn OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 cards from the Department of Labor (depending on their industry). More on this in a moment.
It is important that employers provide adequate education; a 10 or 30 card ensures that they have a good baseline of knowledge. As part of their course, team members will take an exam. An OSHA study guide is an invaluable learning tool. Not only can they use it to study (and ace the test!) but they can refer back to it on the job.
- How to Stay Current with Your OSHA 10 or 30 Card
We mentioned a 10 or 30 card issued by the Department of Labor. What is this? Official DOL cards are mandatory in many states and in specific types of job sites. These can only be provided by authorized OSHA Outreach courses. Not everyone needs a DOL card, so be sure to check with an OSHA representative to be sure you are covering your bases and complying with the law.
- Where To Turn for Help/Information
It is worth repeating that an OSHA study guide is not a one-off tool, so to speak. Employees can use it throughout their training courses and beyond. It is a helpful resource in terms of staying safe on the job site and making sure that all requirements and standards are being met. You can also access your OSHA trainer to ask all the relevant questions you need to ensure that you are up to speed in every aspect of training, education, and safety.
Looking for OSHA Training Near You?
You’ve come to the right place. Labor for Hire is dedicated to providing the best opportunities and the best tips and tricks for employers or job seekers. We also offer exceptional OSHA training for management-level employees, to ensure that your safety and health programs are in line with OSHA guidelines and state and federal laws. We offer online classes for ultimate flexibility and convenience. Courses are led by industry experts in workplace safety, and the interactive format allows for great one-on-one learning.
Safety is too important to be neglected or overseen in a haphazard manner. Proper OSHA training prevents workplace injuries and fatalities, not to mention protects your business’s good name and reputation. At Labor for Hire, we are committed to your safety – and your success.
