Does OSHA Certification Expire? What to Know

A press release shared by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2019 more than 5,300 workers died on job sites. Private industry accounted for 20 percent of worker fatalities in the same year, which is why construction workers are asked to meet safety standards and training requirements set by the U.S. Department of Labor and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 

The OSHA act of 1970 states that every employer must provide a safe and healthy work environment to all workers. OSHA aims to prevent work-related illnesses, deaths, and injuries by enforcing strict standards, including proper employee training, education, and assistance. OSHA classifies construction workers based on their work and job title, including carpenters, laborers, glaziers, heavy equipment operators, construction supervisors, sheet metal workers, and others working in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. 

This blog answers several of the questions you may have about OSHA and the training program, including: Does OSHA certification expire? How long does it take to acquire? What types of OSHA certifications are even offered? Read below to learn how important is OSHA outreach training to remain safe at your workplace. 

OSHA certification’s importance in the construction industry 

Workplace injuries and illnesses have receded from 10.9 incidents per 100 construction workers in 1972 to 2.8 in 2019. OSHA’s Construction Focus Four is responsible for up to 80 percent of work-related injuries and fatalities:

• Fall hazard
• Struck by hazards
• Electrocution hazards
• Caught in/between hazards

AEC professionals, and in particular construction workers, must gain proper training for job-specific concerns, including what personal protective equipment (PPE) to use, general safety and health provisions, and fall protection for maximum workplace safety. 

Top questions asked about OSHA certification

1. What industries require OSHA certification?

Employees should have OSHA certification if a company falls under the general industry category. This may cover companies from office work to manufacturing. However, OSHA has set standards for Maritime, Agriculture, and Construction, making it mandatory for everyone aspiring to work in these industries to gain outreach training. 

2. How long does it take to get OSHA certification?

Entry-level construction professionals require OSHA 10-hour construction safety outreach training, whereas managerial professionals, such as foreman, project managers, and supervisors are required to take the OSHA thirty-hour training course. 

3. Does OSHA certification expire?

No, OSHA’s Department of Labor (DOL) cards are issued without expiration dates. However, some companies and government agencies may ask you to take the training again after a certain period of time to ensure you’re aware of job-specific concerns. 

4. How do I renew my OSHA certificate?

Since OSHA certifications don’t expire, you don’t have to retake the training. It’s recommended to refresh your knowledge about safety and specific job or project related concerns at your workplace every four to five years. 

Get on the career ladder with a technical staffing agency

With rising construction activity in the country, specifically in California, the demand for construction workers is also increasing. The dedicated and experienced recruiters at Certis Solutions provide a wide range of services like resume-building, interview preparation, and training programs to set you apart from other job aspirants. They also recognize your personal and professional goals to find an opportunity that meets your expectations.

Certis Solutions shares a great relationship with top construction companies in the state and across the country that can provide you with continual, long-term employment. Moreover, our pay rate transparency promotes higher salaries. Visit Certis Solutions to learn more about our services or to find your next construction job.