Center finds OSHA construction training may improve safety, more research needed

Silver Spring, MD – Although many people who take OSHA-approved construction safety courses believe the training is beneficial and improves safety, more research is needed to determine the training’s impact and value, according to a recent study (.pdf file).

The Center for Construction Research and Training, which is affiliated with the AFL-CIO, surveyed 100 Massachusetts workers about the OSHA 10-hour class for construction. A 2008 rule (.pdf file) required the training for all workers on publicly funded projects in the state.

Prior to the rule, the training was standard in most large-scale projects in both the public and private arena, according to respondents, but the requirement helped set a “baseline” encouraging the private sector to adopt the rule as an industry standard.

Respondents said a greater number of workers received safety training because of the rule, which may have helped improve safety culture on construction sites. No negative economic impact due to the rule was perceived.

Many respondents believed the training needs of workers with limited English language skills were not being met, despite the availability of foreign language training.