If you’re responsible for workplace safety, you already know that OSHA training is more than just checking a box — it’s about protecting your team, staying compliant, and avoiding expensive fines.
But with so many different job roles and requirements, it can feel overwhelming to know what OSHA expects from you as an employer.
That’s why we created this easy-to-understand guide: to help you clearly navigate OSHA training requirements by job role, stay ahead of 2025 standards, and protect both your employees and your business.
Whether you manage forklift operators, construction workers, or healthcare staff, you’ll find straightforward, actionable information here. Plus, you’ll learn about tools and resources from National Safety Compliance to make compliance easier than ever, from training videos to our cost-saving All Access Pass.
Let’s dive in!
What is OSHA Training, and Why Does It Matter?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created to keep workers safe on the job. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act), employers have a legal obligation to train employees on any hazards they may face.
OSHA training matters because it:
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Helps employees identify and avoid workplace hazards
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Reduces the risk of injuries, illnesses, and fatalities
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Protects employers from expensive fines or lawsuits
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Builds a stronger culture of trust and safety
If you fail to provide the required training, you could face severe penalties, and more importantly, put your employees at risk. Good training is an investment in your people, your business, and your reputation.
For official OSHA guidelines, you can browse the CFR Regulations & Publications available on our site or visit the official OSHA Training Standards page directly for more details.
Who Needs OSHA Training?
Any employee whose work exposes them to potential hazards, whether they’re on the production floor, in a healthcare setting, or working in an office.
OSHA doesn’t limit training requirements to high-risk jobs. If there’s a chance an employee could be injured or exposed to danger, employers must provide documented, job-specific training.
That includes:
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Employees who operate machinery or powered equipment (e.g., forklifts, conveyor belts, industrial machines)
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Workers who perform tasks at heights, including those using ladders, scaffolds, or aerial lifts
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General laborers and warehouse staff who may be exposed to slip, trip, or fall hazards
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Healthcare personnel who may encounter bloodborne pathogens or ergonomic strain
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Supervisors and HR professionals responsible for enforcing safety policies
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Office staff who may need training on emergency procedures, ergonomics, or hazard communication
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Temporary or seasonal workers who are often overlooked but require the same level of protection
If any part of an employee’s role involves exposure to hazards, even occasionally, OSHA expects you to provide relevant, up-to-date training.
Explore job-specific training options from NSC: View training by category
OSHA Training Requirements by Job Role
OSHA doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Its requirements are carefully matched to the specific work employees perform.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s needed by job category, with supporting links to NSC’s training resources.
Forklift Operators (Manufacturing & Warehousing)
Forklifts are one of the most common (and most dangerous) machines on many worksites. OSHA's Powered Industrial Truck Standard (29 CFR 1910.178) requires employers to ensure all operators are trained, evaluated, and retrained regularly.
Required forklift training should cover:
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Safe operating techniques and hazard avoidance
Note: All training must be documented and available for inspection.
Get Compliant with NSC’s Forklift Safety Training!
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Covers all OSHA-required topics
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
Aerial Lift & MEWP Operators
From scissor lifts to boom lifts, Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) present unique hazards that require specialized training. OSHA doesn’t just suggest this training; it requires it.
According to OSHA standards (and ANSI A92.22 guidelines), MEWP operators must be trained before they ever use a lift on the job. This training should cover:
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Fall protection and harness use
Training must be documented, and refresher training may be required if unsafe practices are observed, new equipment is introduced, or work conditions change.
Get Compliant with NSC’s Ariel Lift Safety Training!
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Covers all OSHA-required topics
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
General Laborers & Warehouse Staff
General laborers face a wide range of hazards depending on the worksite, but slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries.
Training for general laborers and warehouse teams should include:
Get Compliant with NSC’s Manufacturing and Warehouse Safety Training!
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Covers all OSHA-required topics
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
Construction Workers
Construction employees work in one of the most high-risk environments. OSHA’s construction standard (29 CFR 1926) requires training in:
Note: Employers must also provide training on any site-specific hazards and maintain updated records of all completed training.
Get Compliant with NSC’s Construction Safety Training!
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Covers all OSHA-required topics
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
Healthcare Workers
From exposure to bloodborne pathogens to ergonomic hazards, healthcare staff face unique risks. OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) requires:
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Annual bloodborne pathogens training
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Personal Protective Equipment use and safe handling of contaminated materials
Remember: Annual refreshers are required, and all training must be documented.
Get Compliant with NSC’s Healthcare Safety Training!
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
Supervisors & Human Resources Professionals
Not only are supervisors and HR professionals responsible for ensuring their teams follow OSHA protocols, but they’re also often the ones documenting incidents, conducting evaluations, and reinforcing safe behaviors on the job.
Recommended OSHA training topics for supervisors include:
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HIPAA privacy and security
Office & Administrative Staff
Even lower-risk office staff must complete specific OSHA-required training:
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Ergonomic safety to prevent strain injuries
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Workplace violence prevention
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Hazard communication if chemicals are present
Note: These areas are essential to protect all employees, regardless of their role.
Get Compliant with NSC’s Human Resources Safety Training!
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Includes printable certificates
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Available in USB/DVD or streaming format
How Often Does OSHA Training Need to Be Renewed?
This is a common question! OSHA requires employers to retrain whenever:
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Employees change job roles
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New hazards are introduced
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Equipment changes significantly
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Unsafe practices are observed
Some trainings have set refresh schedules, including:
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Forklift: every 3 years or after an unsafe incident
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Fall Protection: annually
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Hazard Communication: annually
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Bloodborne Pathogens: annually
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Fire Safety / Emergency: annually
Always document your training, keep records, and verify what is required for your state (since some local agencies may have stricter rules).
What Happens If You Don’t Provide Required OSHA Training?
Failing to provide required OSHA training can put your team and your business at serious risk. Employers who skip or delay training could face:
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OSHA citations and significant fines
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Lawsuits from injured workers
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Increased workers’ compensation costs
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Higher turnover and low morale
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Long-term damage to your reputation
For reference, OSHA penalties in 2025 can exceed $16,131 per serious violation, and repeat or willful violations can top $161,323 each!
How to Stay Compliant Every Year
Building a sustainable and compliant safety program requires consistency and adherence to strict guidelines. Here’s a quick list to guide you:
- Identify hazards for every role
- Map each hazard to the required training
- Deliver initial and refresher courses
- Keep training documentation current
- Audit your program regularly
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NSC can help you stay on track, save time, and protect your team!
How National Safety Compliance Supports Your Training Goals
We make compliance easier. For over 20 years, we’ve helped employers protect their workers with resources that are easy to access, up-to-date, and affordable!
Training by Industry
Covering construction, healthcare, warehousing, and more, NSC’s solutions ensure you meet OSHA requirements.
OSHA Publications & Materials
From CFR reference books to safety posters and hazard communication materials, NSC supports you beyond safety courses.
All Access Pass
Unlimited access to NSC’s entire OSHA training video library in English and Spanish — anytime, anywhere. No guessing about updates or changes. And it saves you thousands of dollars.
Pro Tip: Most NSC training kits include a 30-day or 1-year digital license. If you're looking for unlimited access across your organization, consider upgrading to the All Access Pass for full access to our training library all year long!
OSHA Training FAQs
Q: Do OSHA training requirements change every year?
A: Some requirements remain consistent, but OSHA frequently updates or clarifies its regulations. It's important to stay up to date with changes, especially if you work in a high-risk industry. NSC’s training materials are regularly updated to reflect the latest standards.
Q: How often does OSHA training need to be renewed?
A: It depends on the training type. For example, Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazard Communication training must be renewed annually. Forklift operator training is required every three years, or sooner if an incident occurs.
Q: Do HR teams or supervisors need OSHA training?
A: Yes! Anyone involved in workplace safety oversight should be trained. This includes HR professionals and supervisors responsible for enforcing safety policies, documenting incidents, and training new employees.
Q: What happens if I don’t provide the required OSHA training?
A: Your business may be cited and fined by OSHA, and more importantly, your workers could face serious injuries. Proper training helps prevent accidents and protects both your team and your company.
Ready to Simplify OSHA Compliance?
NSC is here to protect your team, train smarter, and stay prepared for inspections. Your employees deserve to feel safe and supported, and you deserve the peace of mind that comes with compliance!