OSHA 10 vs. OSHA 30: Key Differences You Should Know

When it comes to workplace safety, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Outreach Training Program offers two main courses for workers and supervisors alike—OSHA 10 and OSHA 30. However, with the different options available, it’s easy to get confused when trying to decide which one best suits your needs. 

This guide will explain the distinctions between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30, helping you make an informed choice, whether you're an entry-level worker, a supervisor, or an employer ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations.

What’s the Purpose of OSHA 10 and OSHA 30? 

Both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 are part of OSHA’s Outreach Training Program, designed to promote workplace safety by educating workers and supervisors about recognizing and preventing job-related hazards. Upon completing these courses, participants receive a

Department of Labor (DOL) card as proof of training. 

But here’s the key difference: 

• OSHA 10 is intended for entry-level workers or those with no supervisory responsibilities. 

• OSHA 30 is tailored for supervisors and individuals responsible for workplace safety programs. 

While the shared goal is improving workplace safety, the depth of training and target audience differ significantly between the two programs. 

How Long Are the Courses? 

The numbers in "OSHA 10" and "OSHA 30" denote the hours of instruction required for each course. 

• OSHA 10 consists of 10 hours of training, including breaks, quizzes, and tests. 

• OSHA 30 involves a more in-depth curriculum, spanning 30 hours of instruction.

The duration of a course often reflects the extent of its coverage. OSHA 10 is more suited for workers who need a foundational understanding of workplace safety, while OSHA 30 dives deeper into supervisory responsibilities and hazard management. 

Who Should Take OSHA 10 vs. OSHA 30? 

The choice between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 largely depends on your role and responsibilities. Here’s a quick breakdown of the target audience for each course. 

OSHA 10 

OSHA 10 is ideal for workers who are only responsible for their own safety. This includes positions like: 

• Construction laborers 

• Machine operators 

• Warehouse employees 

• Retail workers 

If you’re a new hire or an employee tasked with following safety protocols rather than enforcing them, OSHA 10 is probably sufficient for your needs. 

OSHA 30 

OSHA 30 is designed for individuals with supervisory or managerial responsibilities. This includes roles such as: 

• Supervisors 

• Site managers 

• Engineers 

• Safety specialists 

• Project managers 

Supervisors are not only responsible for their own safety but also for ensuring the safety of their team. OSHA 30 helps them understand broad workplace safety rules and equips them with tools to manage and prevent risks. 

Curriculum Differences Between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 

Although both courses cover fundamental workplace safety topics, OSHA 30 goes deeper into the supervisory aspect of operations. 

OSHA 10 Curriculum 

The OSHA 10 curriculum focuses on mandatory topics related to common jobsite hazards. These include:

• Introduction to OSHA

• Fall protection 

• Electrical safety 

• Hazard communication 

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) 

Around 6–7 of the 10 hours are spent on these mandatory topics, while the remaining hours focus on elective topics, allowing instructors to customize the course based on the audience’s specific needs. 

OSHA 30 Curriculum 

On the other hand, OSHA 30 includes broader and more detailed coverage. After covering the basics (Introduction to OSHA and common hazards), the course dives deeper into topics relevant to supervisors, including:

• Managing Safety and Health 

• Job site inspections 

• Hazard identification and control 

• Illness and injury prevention programs 

• Safety meeting best practices 

Supervisors must also learn effective communication strategies to manage teams and maintain compliance across workplace operations. By covering more elective topics than OSHA 10, OSHA 30 ensures supervisors are prepared for a wide variety of challenges. 

Do You Ever Need Both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30? 

Do You Need OSHA 10 Before Taking OSHA 30? 

No. OSHA 10 is not a prerequisite for OSHA 30. If your position requires the more in-depth OSHA 30 training, you can enroll directly without completing OSHA 10 beforehand. 

Do You Need OSHA 10 If You Already Have OSHA 30? 

Probably not. OSHA 30 covers all the content included in OSHA 10. Most employers and state regulations accept OSHA 30 as a valid substitute for OSHA 10. However, check local laws and industry-specific renewal requirements to ensure compliance. 

Why Offer Both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 as a Package? 

Online providers often sell packages that include both OSHA 10 and OSHA 30, but here’s the reason: these packages allow two individuals, such as a worker and their supervisor, to save money by purchasing bundled courses at discounted rates. 

How to Decide Which Course to Take 

1. Check Your Role Requirements: Do you supervise others or oversee job site safety? If yes, OSHA 30 is the way to go. 

2. Consult Your Employer: Some employers specify training requirements for certain roles. 

3. Review Local Regulations: Certain states, counties, or municipalities mandate OSHA training for specific industries or safety-sensitive positions. 

   
   

Always confirm these factors before enrolling in a specific OSHA course. 

How to Get Your OSHA Card 

OSHA Outreach courses can only be delivered by authorized third-party training providers. Thankfully, registering for an online OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 course is simple and convenient. Courses offered by compliant platforms are mobile-friendly, meaning you can complete your training anytime, anywhere. 

Upon completing your course, you’ll receive a printable certificate of completion, and a durable plastic DOL card will be mailed to you within a few weeks. 

Why OSHA Training Matters 

Workplace hazards can have devastating consequences. OSHA training not only ensures compliance with labor regulations but also empowers workers and supervisors to recognize and eliminate risks proactively. Whether you’re a worker needing foundational safety knowledge or a supervisor seeking to enhance workplace safety management, OSHA training is an invaluable resource. 

Take the first step toward creating a safer and more efficient workplace today.