Considering OSHA fines and the high cost of worker injuries, safety training is no longer a nice-to-have perk. It’s a necessity for all workplaces. Fortunately, you don’t need to fork over a hefty price to start. With online OSHA training, you can provide executives and employees with the expertise they need in an accessible and convenient way. Here’s everything you need to know when it comes to getting your company started on the right track with this essential program.
What is OSHA training?
OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Their mission is to improve the health and safety of American workers — and their efforts have had a huge impact. Workers’ compensation claims have gone down by 35% since OSHA was established in 1970.
The number of workers killed on the job has also been slashed in half since its inception. Clearly, OSHA training is a must. OSHA training programs are designed to help employees navigate the risks associated with their work. In addition to online courses, these programs may also include in-person sessions. They’re meant to help workers recognize potential hazards and reduce the risk of accidents and injury.
Why is OSHA training important?
Workers who receive OSHA training are far less likely to suffer a work-related injury. They’re also less likely to file a workers’ compensation claim. Simply put, OSHA training is good for business. It will save your company money by reducing the number of work-related accidents. If your business is affected by OSHA, you’re required to offer OSHA training to all employees. This training is required for all employees who are in contact with the public and all supervisors and managers. The OSHA training requirements vary depending on the type of industry you’re in. Be sure to check with your state’s department of labor to find out more.
How much does OSHA training cost?
OSHA training costs vary depending on your business’s unique needs and the training materials you decide to use. There are different types of online training programs, each with their own associated costs. You’ll have to pay for programs that are fee-based. If you choose a fee-based program, be prepared to pay for the entire program upfront. This type of model works on a subscription basis, which means you’ll have to keep paying each month or year to continue using it. You’ll also have to pay for programs that are hosted on a third-party site. Most of these programs are free and are available on third-party sites like OSHA’s website, the American Society of Safety Engineers’ website, or the National Safety Council’s website.
Which platform should you use to train your workforce?
The best way to decide is to take a look at the different types of programs available. There are three main types of training programs: Web-based training: These are hosted on a third-party website and are usually free. Self-directed learning: These programs allow you to create your own OSHA training curriculum. Hybrid training: These programs provide a mix of online and third-party materials. They’re great for large companies with diverse operations that need a more customized solution.
What’s included in a basic OSHA training program?
A basic OSHA training program will cover topics like workers’ rights, first aid and CPR, environmental hazards, and general health and safety. You may also choose to include more specific content, like a program on how to avoid slips and falls.
These programs often include quizzes and assessments, which can help you gauge your employees’ progress and make changes to the training as necessary. Many training programs also offer additional coursework and materials. Examples include online safety courses for supervisors and managers, courses for workers about their health and safety rights, and courses for medical professionals about health and safety hazards in the workplace.
Bottom line
OSHA training not only helps keep employees healthy and safe, but it also reduces your company’s risk of fines. As you can see, this training is beneficial for everyone — including you. All businesses are required to provide OSHA training to their employees. Luckily, this type of training can be done online, making it both convenient and cost-effective.
