Introduction

Have you ever heard of a DOL card? If you are working in industries that require specialized safety training, this card is a must-have for you. Private industry employers reported over 2.6 million nonfatal illnesses and injuries in 2023. This decrease is driven by relevant OSHA outreach training programs offered by the Department of Labor (DOL). The agency issues this wallet card to any professional who has completed OSHA certifications. However, you may be confused regarding which course you should take because of similar titles like OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training. 

That is why you need to know the differences between both courses to decide which one suits your needs and profession. In this guide, we will highlight the major characteristics of and the differences between OSHA 10 and 30 training. 

Read More: What is Osha Training

What are OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training Courses?

OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 certification courses are training programs developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a federal agency under the United States Department of Labor. These courses aim to educate supervisors and workers about occupational safety and health standards, regulations and best practices to promote safer workplaces across various industries.

Both courses are part of OSHA’s Outreach Training Program and are available for various industries, including general industry, construction, and maritime. These courses serve as standardized safety training to help employers ensure their workers meet OSHA safety standards.

What is Covered Under an OSHA 10 Course?

OSHA sets up a specific framework for each industry and course level. All course providers must cover a few mandatory topics and select a certain number of topics from a list of electives. The OSHA 10 training course usually covers the following topics: 

• Introduction to OSHA

• Focus Four Hazards

• PPE and Lifesaving Equipment

• Health Hazards in Construction

The 10-hour course also includes the following elective topics: 

• Stairways and Ladders

• Cranes, Elevators, Derricks, Hoists, and Conveyors

• Excavations

• Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal

• Scaffolds

• Hand and Power Tools

The new and improved version of the OSHA 10 course also includes the following games:

• Hazard a Guess: This involves presenting various construction scenarios that challenge you to identify the safety and health hazards present in them.

• Know Your PPE: This includes assigning a specific task to help you quickly select the required personal protective equipment.

• Stairs and Ladders: Here, you get to play four different micro-games to learn about ladder safety.

• The Signs: These require you to match hazard signage with the correct meaning.

Read More: List of Osha violations 

What is Covered Under the OSHA 30 Training Course?

OSHA 30 covers almost the same topics as OSHA 10 but is more in-depth. However, most of the time difference in OSHA 30 construction training is spent on new topics. Supervisors doing the course must know numerous safety topics, so they spend more time learning about OSHA standards for more specialized work. Here is a list of the additional topics taught in OSHA 30: 

• Concrete and Masonry Construction

• Confined Spaces

• Ergonomics

• Fire Protection and Prevention

• Safety and Health Programs

• Welding and Cutting

• Silica Exposure

• Lead Exposure

• Asbestos Exposure

• Motor Vehicles, Marine Operations, and Mechanized Equipment; Rollover Protective Structures and Overhead Protection; and Signals, Signs, and Barricades

The new and improved version of OSHA 30 includes the following games too: 

• Confined Spaces: A game to identify the type of confined space shown to you. 

• Excavations: This involves identifying the risks you must account for while creating an effective excavation protective system.

• All About SDS: It requires you to match hazard labels with safety data sheet information within a given timeline. 

Read More: What is confined Space Training 

Differences Between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training

Everyone should know some key differences between the OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 hour online course. This enables you to decide which course best suits your professional requirements. Below is a detailed comparison of the two courses:

Read More: Differences Between OSHA 10 and 30 Course

Read More: Differences in OSHA 30 Certification Costs by Industry

OSHA 10 vs OSHA 30: Which is Better?

The question of whether OSHA 30 is better than OSHA 10 doesn’t have a straightforward answer. The "better" course depends on your role, industry, and career goals.

Requirements for Entry-level Professionals

OSHA 10 is better for entry-level workers who are new to an industry. If your job doesn't involve supervising others or implementing safety protocols, OSHA 10 is likely all you need. It's quick, covers the basics, and ensures that you understand the fundamental safety principles for your job.

In-depth Training for Leaders or Supervisors

OSHA 30 is better for individuals in leadership or supervisory roles, or for those who plan to move into such roles. The more in-depth training is needed for those who need to enforce OSHA standards on the job site. If your role involves managing others, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, or you work in a high-risk industry like construction, OSHA 30 certification can be a game-changer.

Advanced Knowledge of Security Protocols 

Completing an OSHA 30 hour course can give you an edge in your career. Workers with this certification are often seen as more knowledgeable about safety protocols, making them more valuable to employers. Additionally, if you ever plan to move into a leadership role, having the OSHA 30 certification already on your resume can make the transition easier.

Do You Need OSHA 10 Before OSHA 30?

It is not mandatory for you to complete the OSHA 10-hour course before the 30-hour certification. You can choose either course depending on your job role and other professional requirements. However, several professionals prefer to start with the 10-hour course because it helps them acquire basic knowledge associated with OSHA before advancing to the 30-hour training session. 

You may also seek assistance from the instructors in your organization to determine which training course would be relevant to your professional needs. 

Read More: Osha 10 Certification Cost

Choose Between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Training

Both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 training courses are important for professionals working in industries that require safety training. The major difference between both courses is the amount of time dedicated to learning their respective outreach curriculum and topics. If you're new to an industry or your role doesn’t involve enforcing safety measures, OSHA 10 will likely suffice. But if you're in charge of others or want to advance into a leadership role, OSHA 30 training will give you the comprehensive knowledge you need. Eventually, your choice should depend on your current job responsibilities and future career goals. Whether you choose OSHA 10 or OSHA 30, investing in OSHA safety training 30 hours or more will help create a safer, more informed workplace for everyone involved. 

References

1. https://www.osha.gov/training/outreach

2. https://simplifiedsafety.com/blog/what-are-the-differences-between-the-osha-10-and-30-hour-courses/

3. https://www.osha.com/blog/osha-10-30-differences