OSHA Training for
General Industry

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is a U.S. government agency that sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by providing training, outreach, education and assistance. OSHA training is important because it educates employers and workers about workplace hazards, how to prevent injuries and illnesses, and their rights and responsibilities under the law. This leads to a safer and healthier work environment, reduces injuries, and minimizes the risk of costly penalties for employers.

Generally, all employees who are exposed to potential safety and health hazards in the workplace should receive relevant OSHA training. This includes full-time, part-time, temporary, and contract employees. Specific training requirements vary depending on the industry, the job tasks performed, and the hazards present. Employers are responsible for determining the appropriate training needs of their workers.

The frequency of training updates depends on the specific standard and hazard. Some training, like hazard communication (HazCom), may require annual updates. Other training, like fall protection, may need to be updated more frequently based on changes in equipment, procedures, or regulations. It's generally recommended to refresh training at least annually, or whenever new hazards are introduced, changes are made to work processes, or a worker demonstrates a lack of understanding of the training material. Employers have the responsibility to determine appropriate refresher training intervals.

(1) Reduced Workplace Accidents and Injuries: Properly trained workers are better equipped to identify and avoid hazards, leading to fewer accidents. (2) Lower Workers' Compensation Costs: Fewer accidents translate to lower insurance premiums and medical expenses. (3) Increased Productivity: A safe and healthy workplace improves employee morale and reduces downtime due to injuries. (4) Improved Compliance: Training helps employers meet OSHA regulations and avoid citations and penalties. (5) Enhanced Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to worker safety can improve the company's image and attract and retain employees..

The cost of OSHA training varies depending on the type of training, the provider, and the format (e.g., in-person vs. online). Some training courses are offered free of charge by OSHA, especially those related to specific hazards and outreach programs. Employer-provided training, online training, and training through private providers usually involve fees. Employers are generally responsible for the cost of training required by OSHA standards. Click HERE to see our prices.

Failure to provide required OSHA training can result in: (1) OSHA Citations and Penalties: OSHA can issue citations and impose financial penalties for non-compliance with training requirements. Penalties can be substantial, especially for serious violations. (2) Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries: Untrained workers are more likely to be injured, leading to workers' compensation claims and lost productivity. (3) Legal Liability: In the event of an accident, the employer may face lawsuits and legal liability. (4) Damage to Reputation: Failure to prioritize worker safety can damage the company's reputation and make it difficult to attract and retain employees.