Benefits of Earning an OSHA 10 Card as a New Worker

Starting a new position in any workplace could be both captivating and frightening, especially if you are entering fields such as manufacturing, construction, or warehousing. The places where major, dreadful accidents occur almost at any time. This is where obtaining an OSHA 10 card comes in. 

As per the reports, the total number of fatal work injuries in 2022 went up to 5,486, which is 5.7% more than the numbers in 2021. This shows the importance of OSHA safety training, which could save these fatal injuries from happening.

This training aims to teach new workers fundamental skills and knowledge that will enable them to identify and avoid workplace hazards. Apart from learning basic safety awareness, obtaining the OSHA 10 card enhances an employer's attitude toward you. This provides evidence of your trustworthiness and ability to adjust to adverse circumstances without compromising safety.

This blog will discuss the advantages of giving new employees an OSHA 10 Card, the card's advantages at the workplace, and how it can help improve their career prospects.  

Understanding OSHA and the Training Provided

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is a US government organization that manages working conditions by forming policies and providing education and protection. Common awareness programs sponsored by OSHA relate to basic or advanced safety training for employees. The training is provided at different levels based on the safety requirements of the workplace. The two most common levels are OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 training. These figures refer to the number of hours of training:

• OSHA 10: A 10-hour course covering basic safety and health information for entry-level workers in construction and general industry.

• OSHA 30: This is an extended version of a 30-hour class. It is targeted more at supervisors or people with safety responsibilities, giving the students more detailed knowledge on safety matters and recognizing hazards.

What is the OSHA 10 Card?

OSHA offers a 10-hour training program for entry-level employees that covers essential safety and health topics, particularly related to the construction or general industries. The program educates workers on how to identify and avoid risks, educates them about legal rights, and determines employers' responsibilities concerning workplace safety. It also provides instructions on how to file an OSHA complaint, should that be required.

• The OSHA 10 card is easy to carry because it is roughly the size of a credit card and is printed on durable card stock. 

• A colored stripe on a white background indicates the program's industry (construction or general industry) and duration (10-hour or 30-hour). 

• The card also holds details like the student's name, course, trainer's name, date of issue, and unique card number. 

• The card also has a QR code on the back, which confirms the card's authenticity upon scanning.

Read More: Understanding OSHA Certification: A Comprehensive Guide

Importance of OSHA 10 Card in The Workplace

Industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare insurance have high injury risks.  Having an OSHA card can help promote safety in the work environment. Let’s look at the following benefits of the OSHA 10 card:

• It shows employers that the worker has undergone training in workplace safety and understands OSHA compliance. 

• It assures employers that their employees know what their rights are when they are at work, especially the right to a safe working environment.

• It emphasizes the intelligence of employees on awareness of the employer's obligations to guarantee safety compliance. 

• Additionally, an employee may occasionally have an edge when applying for jobs if they have an OSHA card because many employers prefer to hire people who have received OSHA training.

Read More - How OSHA 10-Hour Construction Certification Can Boost Your Career

What Topics Are Covered In Osha 10-Card Training?

There are two different courses for the OSHA 10-hour course: one for the construction industry and the other for the general industry. The topics covered under each course are as follows: 

• The OSHA 10-hour Training Course: 

This one is for people who work in architectural sites, construction, or demolition. It discusses general hazards in the construction field, such as falling from a height, getting caught in or between objects, being impacted by a moving object, and electric shock.

• The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Course: 

This course is designed for workers in non-construction industries such as manufacturing, warehousing, and healthcare. It evaluates safety measures that may help deal with bloodborne pathogens, exposure to hazardous materials, poor walking and working conditions, fire hazards, and the use of equipment and tools.

Read More: Key OSHA Standards Covered in the OSHA 10 Construction Course

Advantages of the OSHA 10 Card For New Workers?

The OSHA 10 Construction course is best suited for workers engaged in construction, including those making new buildings and working in renovations or restorations. Below are the key advantages of the OSHA 10 card:

• Enhanced Safety At Work

Through OSHA certification, entry-level employees are provided with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent workplace accidents, leading to a more secure and efficient work environment. The training involves learning from experienced OSHA-certified trainers who pass on the practical experience, fostering a work environment that emphasizes safety. 

• Boost In Employment Opportunities 

Many employers and industries prefer candidates who have OSHA 10 cards, which show that the candidate is well-trained to handle accidents and manage a safe environment. Earning an OSHA 10 card not only offers job opportunities but also increases the competitive edge among new workers. 

• Complying With The Legislation

While getting an OSHA 10 card certificate is optional, many employers may require completion of OSHA 10 training before employment. Local legislation in some places could also mandate this training. Earning OSHA certification shows that the new workers are compliant with the local laws, preventing situations like fines or legal complications.

• Improved Knowledge of Practical Work Environment

The training involves trainees participating in activities that simulate real-world scenarios. The workers can use an interactive format and learn to tackle workplace hazards. The interactive learning method is more advantageous for training and learning.

• Learning from Versatile Training Options

OSHA 10 training can be completed online or in person at the workplace, depending on the business's needs or the employee's preferences. The modules are designed so that individuals attending even the online training get a proper grasp of preventing workplace hazards. 

• Better Efficiency at Workplace

With the proper OSHA safety training, it is possible to work with confidence and without interruptions, resulting in increased workplace efficiency. This training also comes in handy if there are unforeseen issues since it is easy to apply the learnings and handle the situation immediately.

Read More - Top 5 OSHA Standards Every Business Should Know

How Does OSHA 10 Card Benefit Long-Term Career Goals?

Having an OSHA 10 card for a new worker is advantageous to get a new job since it improves the competitive edge. Moreover, the benefits of the OSHA 10 card are not only limited to present job-seeking scenarios but also improve long-term career goals, such as:

• Increasing Job Opportunities: 

Having an OSHA 10 Card shows that you are capable of managing workplace safety issues and prioritize keeping yourself updated with the latest safety rules and hazard mitigation strategies. This sets you apart from other candidates and increases your chances of getting more job opportunities. 

• Cutting Costs: 

Although it's hard to measure, making an employee safer can result in big cost savings. Reduced accidents translate into lower medical costs, fewer equipment breakdowns, and lost productivity. Thus, by preventing accidents at work, you lower the possibility of future expensive disruptions.

Read More - Breaking Down the Cost of OSHA 10 Certification: What to Expect

• Including Your OSHA Certification on Your Resume: 

You can also showcase your OSHA certification on your resume as soon as you obtain it. Mentioning your OSHA 10—or 30-hour training makes you stand out to potential employers and shows your dedication to safety.

• Networking with Safety Experts: 

Once you complete your OSHA 10-hour training and receive your card, share it on social media and other platforms to establish connections with industry specialists and remain up to date on the newest safety trends. Getting involved with people in your industry can lead to talks, cooperation, and fresh perspectives on workplace safety.

Final Words

For a new worker who is planning to join the workplace anytime soon, it is best to get the OSHA 10 card before joining. Investing in OSHA safety training equips you with safety-related industry-specific knowledge and can help you maintain a responsible work environment effectively. 

Obtaining OSHA certification shows your confidence in identifying and mitigating hazards before major accidents occur and introduces you to your safety rights at the workplace. Additionally, this training strengthens your chances of getting the first preference during the selection process and for future job opportunities.