General Industry vs Construction: Which OSHA Training Do I Need?

The last thing you want is to find yourself at your first day of work and realize, you don’t have the correct credentials. This can happen if you accidentally take an OSHA General Industry course, but actually work in Construction. Then, there are also 10 and 30-hour options. So, what’s the difference between all of these courses anyways?

In this blog, we'll explore the distinctions between General Industry and Construction OSHA training, their respective requirements, and help you choose the right level of training for your needs.

What Is OSHA Training?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training encompasses a range of courses designed to educate workers and employers on occupational safety and health standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. These courses cover topics such as hazard recognition, injury prevention, and compliance with OSHA regulations. The goal of OSHA training is to promote a safe and healthful work environment and reduce the risk of workplace accidents and injuries.

What Are the Benefits of OSHA Training?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022. Industries like construction and manufacturing consistently rank among the highest in injury rates. OSHA estimates that its training and safety programs have helped reduce workplace fatalities by more than 60% and injuries by over 40% since the agency’s creation.

These statistics show just how important OSHA training really is. Not only does it help train workers on workplace safety, it can directly impact, and hopefully reduce, these types of incidents and injuries to workers.

What Is the Difference Between General Industry and Construction?

The main difference between General Industry and Construction lies in the nature of the work being performed. General Industry typically includes sectors such as manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare, and retail, where the focus is on producing goods or providing services. Construction, on the other hand, encompasses activities related to building, renovating, and demolishing structures, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

While there is some overlap in the hazards present in both industries, such as falls, electrical hazards, and exposure to hazardous materials, there are also distinct risks associated with each sector. For example, construction workers may face additional hazards related to working at heights, heavy machinery, and confined spaces, whereas general industry workers may encounter risks associated with machinery operation, ergonomic strain, and chemical exposure.

Is OSHA Training Mandatory?

Yes, OSHA training is mandatory for certain industries and occupations, as outlined in OSHA standards. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers receive the necessary training to perform their jobs safely and comply with OSHA regulations. Failure to provide adequate training can result in fines, penalties, and increased risk of workplace accidents and injuries.

In general, OSHA requires employers to provide training that is specific to the hazards present in their workplace and the tasks performed by their employees. This may include general safety training, as well as specialized training on topics such as lockout/tagout, confined space entry, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Who Should Take OSHA Construction Training?

Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the U.S.

For this reason alone, anyone who performs construction work should consider OSHA 10 Construction a good investment in their health and safety. This course is appropriate whether you’re an entry-level construction laborer just learning the ropes or an experienced specialized contractor who spends time on active worksites. It will teach you how to recognize the most common hazardous work conditions so that you can protect yourself and others in the chaos of a job site. It will also teach you about precautions you can use to reduce or eliminate the risk.

If you have any type of supervisory role on a construction site, then you need safety and health knowledge that is both deeper and broader than that of the average worker. OSHA 30 Construction is designed to give you the tools to enforce OSHA compliance and information on a larger range of specialized work, so you understand the risks to everyone under your supervision.

Due to how often construction workers move from employer to employer, it’s common for employers like general contractors to require proof of OSHA 10 or 30 in the form of a durable plastic wallet card, often called an OSHA card or  DOL card. Even when they don’t require a DOL card, they might give hiring preference to applicants who have one. This is especially true for high-paying employers bidding for publicly funded projects.

In some states, cities, or counties, OSHA 10 or 30 Construction may be legally required for certain kinds of construction work – more on this later.

Who Should Take OSHA General Industry Training?

People who work in high-risk “general industries” like manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and even healthcare can benefit from earning an OSHA 10 General Industry card (or OSHA 30, if you’re a supervisor). Depending on your industry and location, employers may require or show hiring preference to people who already hold this credential.

Since General Industry training covers so many different types of workplaces, you need to be a little more selective about finding the right OSHA Outreach course. Look for a course with topics that match the types of hazards you face on the job. For example, healthcare workers should look for OSHA 10 courses with bloodborne pathogen training, while warehouse workers should look for ergonomics.

General Industry cards never used to be a matter of regulatory compliance, but that’s beginning to change. More laws requiring OSHA General Industry training may be popping up in the future.

OSHA 10-Hour vs 30-Hour Training: Choosing the Right Level

When it comes to OSHA training, one common question that arises is whether to pursue the 10-hour or 30-hour course. Here's a breakdown of each:

• OSHA 10-Hour Training: The OSHA 10-hour course is designed for entry-level workers and provides a basic overview of occupational safety and health principles. This course covers common hazards found in the workplace and emphasizes hazard recognition, avoidance, and prevention. OSHA 10 is typically recommended for employees in industries such as construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and healthcare, where the risk of workplace accidents and injuries is relatively high.
• OSHA 30-Hour Training: The OSHA 30-hour course is intended for supervisors, managers, and other personnel with safety oversight responsibilities. This comprehensive course goes into greater depth on topics covered in the 10-hour course and includes additional modules on topics such as hazard communication, fall protection, and electrical safety. OSHA 30 is recommended for individuals who have supervisory roles or who require a more in-depth understanding of workplace safety and health regulations.

When choosing between OSHA 10-hour and 30-hour training, consider the specific requirements of your industry, job role, and level of responsibility. While the OSHA 10-hour course provides a solid foundation in workplace safety principles, the 30-hour course offers more comprehensive coverage and may be necessary for individuals in supervisory roles or industries with higher levels of risk.

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Understanding the differences between General Industry and Construction OSHA training is crucial for ensuring workplace safety and compliance. Whether you're involved in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, or any other industry, prioritizing OSHA training is essential for protecting the well-being of workers and minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Ready to take the next step in enhancing workplace safety? Consider enrolling in our online OSHA 10 or 30-hour courses. Our comprehensive training programs provide valuable insights into occupational safety and health principles, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to create a safer work environment. Don't wait until it's too late! Invest in OSHA training today and ensure a healthier, more productive future for your organization.