OSHA10 training is the training on safety and health that employers are required to provide for members of their workforces. Training requirements vary according to the nature of each business’s activities and the OSHA standards that apply. For example, in the healthcare industry, OSHA training will likely include some or all the following subjects:
- Emergency Action Plans
- Fire Prevention Plans
- Occupational Noise Exposure
- Hazardous Materials
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Ionizing Radiation
- Hazard Communication
- Walking and Working Surfaces
- Safe Patient Handling
Similar to the HIPAA training requirements, it is necessary for training on some standards to be provided to all members of the workforce, and for training on other standards to be provided to just the members of the workforce exposed to certain hazards.
For example, all Medicare and Medicaid providers are required to comply with CMS’ Emergency Preparedness Requirement. To comply with the OSHA10 training requirements for emergency action plans qualifying providers should train employees on:
(1) The procedures for reporting a fire or other emergency.
(2) The procedures for emergency evacuation.
(3) The procedures to be followed by employees who remain to maintain critical activities.
(4) Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation.
(5) Procedures to be followed by employees performing rescue or medical duties.
(6) The name or job title of every employee who may be contacted by employees who need more information about the plan or an explanation of their duties under the plan.
Conversely, only members of the workforce who conduct or assist with X-rays, CT scans, CAT scans, PET scans, and procedures involving fluoroscopy or who use ionizing radiation to sterilize medical equipment will likely require training on the ionizing radiation standard (1910.1096).
What is the Required Frequency of OSHA10 Training?
When training is required by an OSHA standard, it is most often the case that training is required prior to a member of the workforce performing a role in which they are exposed to a hazard, with refresher training provided at the employer’s discretion.
However, some standards require more frequent training. For example, the bloodborne pathogens standard (1910.1030) requires employees to receive training “At the time of initial assignment to tasks where occupational exposure may take place and at least annually thereafter.”
Additionally, state OSHA plans and other regulatory authorities may require more frequent training. For example, CMS requires members of the workforce to receive emergency preparedness training every two years or annually if the healthcare facility provides long-term care.
What is OSHA10 Training and 30-Hour Training?
OSHA10 training and 30-hour training also known as Outreach Training are two types of training programs offered by OSHA-authorized training organizations. The 10-hour training program is intended for “entry level workers” and includes the basics of hazard recognition and avoidance, workers’ rights, employers’ responsibilities, and how to file a complaint.
The 30-hour training program is more advanced and intended for workers with responsibility for safety and health in the workplace. The program has more depth and variety than the 10-hour program; and, although not standard-specific, is recommended for anybody that will ultimately be responsible for providing OSHA training to colleagues.
Although participation in either Outreach Training Program is voluntary, some states have passed legislation requiring workers in the construction industry to have a 10-hour or 30-hour construction “card” (certificate of completion) before being employed by a construction project. In several cases, the card has to be renewed by retaking training every five years
Conclusion: Make Sure You Know the OSHA Training Requirements
If a safety or health hazard exists in your workplace, it is likely there is an OSHA standard on how to mitigate the risk of an injury or illness from the hazard. There is also likely to be an OSHA10 training requirement in the standard. Therefore, it is important that employers are not only aware of the standard but also of the training requirement.
If you are unsure about which standards applicable to your business have an OSHA training requirement, or you need help with the provision of training, OSHA provides multiple sources of information on its website and also offers a free and confidential on-site consultation program for small and medium-sized businesses.
Alternatively, you can find out more about OSHA compliance for the healthcare industry in our OSHA compliance checklist or seek independent advice from a compliance expert. Businesses can be issued with citations and fines for failing to provide safety and health training to employees when required, so it is important you know the OSHA training requirements and comply with them.
