OSHA’s New Standards for Online Training

Traditionally, all OSHA training has been delivered in-person. With the rise of online learning, OSHA has decided to also offer training, outreach, education and assistance to virtual learners.

Due to the nature of the health and safety topics in these online courses, OSHA has implemented several online training regulations to ensure students get the most from their education.

OSHA Requirements and Regulations for Online Training

Online OSHA courses allow learners to enjoy the convenience of taking courses at their own pace from the location of their choice. Following completion, students can receive their certificates or cards either online or in the mail. While online training can be an effective way to learn the material, there are a few requirements for delivering these types of courses online.

Authorized Online Instructors

Because online learning is becoming a popular alternative training method these days, OSHA has outlined regulations for online training instructors. For example, Sexual Harassment Training is now required in some states for companies who employ 5 or more employees. This Sexual Harassment Training can be done online but employees should be able to contact a qualified trainer. Qualified trainers of Sexual Harassment are Attorneys, HR Professionals, Harassment Prevention Consultants, or Law School, College or University Instructors.

Interactivity and Q&A Sessions

In a classroom setting, students can interact with fellow learners and their instructors. They can ask questions and receive immediate answers and feedback. To replicate this necessary aspect of learning, OSHA expects that all online training allows students to ask questions and receive timely answers from the qualified trainer.

Hands-On Components

An in-person classroom setting allows students to perform more hands-on learning. When possible, online OSHA training should also include hands-on learning and the opportunity to use equipment or tools with feedback and assistance from the qualified trainer. As a result, students can practice what they are learning and learn from that experience.

Additional Factors to Consider for OSHA Online Training

Online training can be a valuable part of your OSHA health and safety training. Online courses can help you meet the safety training requirement standards and is accepted by many employers.

At the same time, it’s important to keep in mind that online training alone may not satisfy all the federal training requirements, depending on the topic and course. In some cases, you may need to complete both online and in-person training. This is the case for the 40-hour HAZWOPER Training, only 24-hour can be taken online and the last 16-hours of the training should be taken hands on.>

Also, training must be provided in a language best suited for the employee. For example, if an employee does not speak or comprehend English, instruction must be provided in a language the employee can understand.

Explore Online OSHA Courses From Hazmat School

At Hazmat School, you can meet EPA, DOT and OSHA requirements with our 24/7 online training. We offer a variety of courses, including First Responder, Hazwoper, EPA Hazardous Waste and more to help companies and employees stay compliant with regulations. With all of our courses, you will be assigned a remote instructor that will be able to assist you 24/7 with any questions from enrolling to specific questions about your operations. In addition, our courses can help your company save money by reducing the risk of costly fines.

Our courses are competitively priced, and we offer group discounts as well as 20% off for all government employees. We also beat all competitors pricing. With a corporate account, employers can track everyone’s progress in the courses, access certificates, run reports and more.

Feel free to contact us today to learn more about the courses we offer and sign up today. If you’re not sure which course is right for you and your team, we’ll be happy to help.