OSHA 10 & OSHA 30 Training Cards
The “OSHA 10” and “OSHA 30” cards come from OSHA’s voluntary Outreach Training Program. Many employers, unions and some states require them, so it pays to know what they are.
- Construction
- General Industry
Photo: example OSHA 10-Hour Construction wallet card (front and back)
What they are
| Course | Who it’s for | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| OSHA 10-Hour (Construction or General Industry) | Entry-level workers | Hazard recognition, worker rights, the Focus Four (construction), PPE, health hazards |
| OSHA 30-Hour (Construction or General Industry) | Supervisors, foremen, workers with safety duties | Everything in the 10-hour plus more depth and more topics |
Courses are taught by OSHA-authorized trainers (in person) or by OSHA-authorized online providers. When you finish, you get a Department of Labor wallet card, usually within a few weeks.
Is it required?
- Federal OSHA does not require the 10- or 30-hour card. It is voluntary training.
- Some states and cities require it by law for certain jobs, for example public construction projects or all construction work. See State-Required Safety Training Cards.
- Many employers, general contractors and unions require it before you can work on their sites.
Important: An OSHA 10 card does not mean you are trained for a specific job. It is awareness training. You still need specific training for things like forklifts, scaffolds, fall protection, confined spaces and respirators.
Avoiding fake cards
- Take the course from an OSHA-authorized trainer or a provider listed on OSHA’s website.
- Online 10-hour courses cannot be finished in less than about two days (OSHA limits training to 7.5 hours per day).
- Keep your card safe and take a photo of both sides.
- Don’t buy a card without taking the course. Fake cards are illegal, and you could lose your job.
Video: how to choose an authorized OSHA Outreach provider
Standards & references
Last updated: