According to the U.S. Department of Labor website, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, also known as OSHA, was established to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for working men and women. The act is designed to provide the necessary training and education to maintain a high level of safety in a wide range of industries.
To work in these industries, new employees must attend OSHA training before beginning their new jobs. Today, there are plenty of options in OSHA training since community colleges nationwide have stepped up to answer the call for skilled laborers who understand the importance of safety on the job.
This video explains what OSHA is.
Determining a Need
OSHA includes specific training guidelines that must be applied to all businesses, from the employer down to all employees. The guidelines include:
- Determining whether there is a need for training
- Identifying training needs, goals, and objectives
- Developing learning activities and conducting training
- Evaluating the effectiveness of the program and creating improvements when necessary
The model set forth by the U.S. Department of Labor makes it much easier for smaller companies to conduct their training without going to the added expense of hiring professional trainers or purchasing expensive materials. However, the value of utilizing a community college program for OSHA training often makes this path the best choice for companies of all sizes.
Community colleges take the guesswork out of the process by providing programs customized to the specific needs of industries. Many colleges even offer different programs for new employees and more comprehensive ones for supervisory positions.
Programs typically include certification at the end, with a completion card issued in your industry. The community colleges are responsible for conducting the training sessions following OSHA guidelines, so employers can rest assured their employees are adequately trained and certified.
With community colleges across the country offering a wide range of OSHA training options, it is no wonder that many employers and new employees interested in entering a specific industry take the time to complete one of these programs. We have just a few examples to consider if you are interested in OSHA training through a community college in your area.
Chabot-Las Positas Community College District
Workers in California can complete all of their OSHA training through the Chabot-Las Positas Community College District. According to the college website, campuses are located in both Hayward and Livermore, and they offer extensive OSHA training options, no matter what your industry or position might be.
The OSHA training website devoted to this program offers ten and 30-hour OSHA training in construction and the general industry. Exercise is also available for those interested in becoming an authorized OSHA trainer.
This video outlines the OSHA training program at Chabot-Las Positas Community College.
Against the pristine beauty of the rugged Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Red Rocks Community College also offers a variety of OSHA training options. According to the college website, this institution also provides ten and 30-hour training courses in construction and general industry. The college website outlines the requirements for OSHA training in step-by-step, easy-to-follow instructions so that you can complete your training program without worry.
This college has been involved in OSHA training since 1992 and is current on all the latest regulations governing the training process.
Workers in New York can get their OSHA certification through Clinton Community College. Clinton has recently revamped their program to comply with changes to New York law, so students can rest assured their OSHA training will be on par with the latest rules, according to the college website.
The 10-hour Outreach course can be done completely online, adding to the convenience for new workers who require certification to begin work, and the college also offers 30-hour training in construction and general industry. Students receive a completion card and certificate at the end of the class.
Down south, workers can get the OSHA certification at Houston Community College. According to the college website, this institution offers 10-hour training on Construction Safety and Health. In addition to the core training, students can select up to three topics of their choice, including Materials Handling, Excavation, and Stairs and Ladders. This allows HCC to customize its OSHA training to the specific needs and interests of each student in the program.
OSHA training is much easier today, thanks to the many programs available through community colleges. With convenient scheduling and completion certificates issued at the conclusion, this is the right place to start before jumping into your career.
This video describes the 2019 OSHA regulations.
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