How To Get Your OSHA 10 Certification For Electricians

4
min read
Seth Brown
Table of Contents

OSHA 10 certification is required for most electricians working on construction sites across the United States. This safety training program covers the basics of workplace safety and helps prevent accidents that could end your career. Getting your OSHA 10 certification not only keeps you compliant with job requirements but also makes you a more valuable and hirable electrician.

What is OSHA 10 and Why Do Electricians Need It?

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry Training Program is a safety awareness program designed for entry-level workers in the construction industry. For electricians, this certification is often mandatory on job sites and provides knowledge about recognizing, avoiding, and preventing safety hazards.

Key benefits for electricians:

  • Required by most construction companies and job sites
  • Reduces workplace accidents and injuries
  • Makes you more competitive when applying for jobs
  • Provides knowledge that could save your life or career
  • Often required for union membership and apprenticeship programs

What the course covers:

  • Electrical safety hazards and prevention
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements
  • Fall protection and ladder safety
  • Hazard communication and material safety
  • Emergency response procedures

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your OSHA 10 Certification

Step 1: Access the OSHA 10 Course

For English speakers: Visit: https://www.careersafeonline.com/courses/osha-10-hour/construction

For Spanish speakers: Visit: https://www.careersafeonline.com/courses/osha-10-hour/construction-spanish

Once you're on the CareerSafe website, click Add to Cart to begin the enrollment process.

Step 2: Add the Course to Your Cart

After clicking "Add to Cart," you'll be taken to the Create a New account page or you can sign in if you already have an account.

The OSHA 10 course cost varies by provider, typically ranging from $25-95.  CareerSafe currently charges $59 per student, while other providers may charge more for in-person classes.

Step 3: Complete Your Purchase

Click Checkout and input all of your personal and payment information. Make sure to:

  • Double-check your name spelling (it must match your ID)
  • Provide accurate contact information
  • Keep your receipt for your records

Step 4: Access Your Training Portal

Once you submit payment, you'll receive login credentials to access the CareerSafe portal where you'll complete your training.

Important Timing Information

Plan for at least 2-3 days to complete your OSHA 10 certification. OSHA regulations limit students to 7.5 hours of training per day, which means you cannot complete the full 10-hour course in a single day.

Recommended schedule:

  • Day 1: Complete 3-4 hours of training
  • Day 2: Complete 3-4 hours of training
  • Day 3: Finish remaining hours and take final exam

Set aside dedicated time blocks to avoid rushing through the material. The information covered could prevent serious accidents on job sites.

What to Expect During the OHSA 10 Course

Course Format

  • 10 hours of online training modules
  • Interactive content with videos and quizzes
  • Module-by-module progression (you can't skip ahead)
  • Final exam at the end of the course

Key Topics for Electricians

  • Electrical safety standards and regulations
  • Lockout/tagout procedures for electrical work
  • Personal protective equipment for electrical hazards
  • Arc flash and electrical burn prevention
  • Grounding and bonding requirements
  • Working around overhead power lines

Passing Requirements

  • Complete all 10 hours of training content
  • Pass module quizzes (usually 70% or higher)
  • Pass the final exam
  • No time limit on individual modules, so take your time

After Completing Your OSHA 10

Receiving Your Card

  • Digital certificate available immediately upon completion
  • Physical wallet card mailed within 2-3 weeks
  • Keep both digital and physical copies safe

Card Validity

  • OSHA 10 cards do not expire
  • Some employers may require refresher training every 3-5 years
  • Keep your card with you on all job sites

Career Benefits

Getting your OSHA 10 opens doors to:

  • More job opportunities with safety-conscious employers
  • Higher-paying positions that require safety certification
  • Union apprenticeship programs
  • Leadership roles on job sites
  • Reduced insurance liability for employers

Tips for Success

Before You Start

  • Set aside uninterrupted time blocks for studying
  • Find a quiet space with reliable internet
  • Gather any materials you want for note-taking
  • Plan to spread the course over 2-3 days

During the Course

  • Take notes on important safety procedures
  • Pay special attention to electrical safety modules
  • Don't rush through the material
  • Ask questions if you don't understand something

Study Strategies

  • Focus on electrical hazard identification
  • Review lockout/tagout procedures carefully
  • Understand PPE requirements for different situations
  • Learn emergency response procedures

Don't wait to get your OSHA 10 certification. Most electrical jobs require it, and having it ready makes you immediately available for work when opportunities arise. The course costs between $25 and $95, depending on your provider and requires 10 hours of training plus study time, but this small investment typically pays for itself within the first week of work on jobs that require it.

The electrical industry values safety above all else. Getting your OSHA 10 certification shows employers that you take safety seriously and are committed to professional development—qualities that lead to better jobs and career advancement.

FAQs

Do I need OSHA 10 to work as an electrician?

Most construction sites and many electrical contractors require OSHA 10 certification. While not legally required in all states, it's practically necessary for most electrical work.

How long is the OSHA 10 certification valid?

OSHA 10 cards do not expire, but some employers may require periodic refresher training.

What if I fail the OSHA 10 final exam?

You can retake the exam. Most providers allow multiple attempts at no additional cost.

Is OSHA 10 the same across all states?

The federal OSHA 10 program is standardized, but some states have additional requirements. Check your local regulations.

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Launch your electrician career with Buildforce.

Download the Buildforce app for free to find electrician jobs hiring right now.