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Minimum Training Required by OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide employees with the training and education necessary to prevent or reduce work-related injuries. The training requirements differ depending on the industry and occupation. OSHA also conducts inspections to confirm employers are complying with the regulations.

  1. Training Guidelines

    • Employee training can prevent certain problems and injuries from occurring in the workplace. Proper training can teach workers how to use equipment, how to perform their jobs effectively and inform them of the risks involved in the job. Employers should identify the goals they want to achieve and figure out the best way to implement the training to get those results. OSHA has guidelines an employer can reference when trying to create an effective training program.

    Employees at Risk

    • All employees should be informed of the safety risks involved in executing their jobs, but some employees are at a greater risk of being injured than others. If the employer has limited resources for training, the employees with the highest risk of being injured receive priority. Training should include detailed descriptions of how to perform the tasks, how to operate the equipment, safety tips the workers need to utilize and information regarding safety hazards.

    Personal Protective Equipment

    • Some jobs require the use of personal protective equipment. Before the employees begin working, they have to understand which protective equipment is necessary, when to use it, and how to properly wear and adjust the equipment. Employees also need to know to how maintain the equipment, clean it and the length of time the equipment should be used before being disposed. Employees should demonstrate the ability to properly use the equipment before they start working.

    Hazardous Materials

    • Employees must receive specific training when working in an environment that involves hazardous materials. The workers need to receive training regarding the hazards in the workplace, equipment operation instructions and safety practices that will minimize the risk of injury. Employees should know which staff members are responsible for making the work site safe and secure. The workers are required to know which symptoms may indicate their health has been compromised.

    Emergency Plans

    • The employer should create a plan for employees to safely evacuate the work facilities in case of an emergency. Employees need to know the location of the emergency exits and the safety precautions to use while exiting the work area. Employees who will assist in the evacuation should be informed of their responsibilities. All employees need to be notified if the emergency plans are changed or modified.

    Safety and Warning Signs

    • Employers should instruct employees of the meaning of any safety or warning signs located in the workplace. The signs may list which dangers to be aware of and initial steps the employees should take to protect themselves in case of an accident. This can supplement the more thorough training the employees have already received regarding workplace hazards and safety measures.

    Medical Services

    • Personnel trained to administer first aid need to be on-site if the workplace is not close to any medical clinics or hospitals. The medical supplies needed to provide preliminary treatment to injured employees should be easily accessible to trained staff.

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