Clean Air Act: History, Standards & Safety
The Clean Air Act (CAA) is a federal law that regulates air emissions from both stationary (industrial) and mobile sources throughout...
October 10, 2025
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Posted On: October 07, 2025
In 2023, private industry employers in the U.S. reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses, down 8.4% from the previous year, with an overall rate of 2.4 cases per 100 full-time workers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). During the same period, there were 5,283 fatal work injuries, equal to 3.5 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers—the lowest rate since 2021, as reported by the BLS Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries.
The construction industry remains one of the most dangerous fields. In 2023, 1,075 workers died in construction-related incidents, accounting for nearly one in five workplace fatalities nationwide. Among those deaths, 421 deaths resulted from falls, slips, or trips, the leading cause of death in construction.
These statistics make one thing clear: general safety knowledge alone is not enough. Training should address the specific risks of each work environment to help prevent injuries and fatalities.
OSHA recommends that workers receive training based on the hazards of their jobs, meaning not everyone requires the same program. The difference between General Industry and Construction training lies in the nature of the work, the environment, and the risks involved.
The General Industry program applies to workplaces such as factories, warehouses, and healthcare facilities, where tasks and hazards remain relatively consistent. The Construction program, however, focuses on areas like building, renovation, and demolition, where hazards change as the work progresses.
Both training types help workers recognize hazards, follow OSHA regulations, and maintain safer workplaces. Their topics and focus vary depending on the job’s conditions and potential risks.
General Industry training is designed for workers in non-construction settings such as warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare, utilities, and distribution centers. The program covers hazard identification, PPE use, emergency response, machine guarding, ergonomics, chemical safety, and electrical hazards.
Two course levels are available:These programs teach how to manage workplace hazards and maintain organized, safe operations.
OSHA Construction training is designed for workers involved in building, renovation, and demolition. Construction sites carry higher risks such as falls, electrocutions, struck-by incidents, and caught-in-between accidents, commonly known as OSHA’s “Fatal Four.”
In cities such as New York, this training is mandatory for construction and demolition workers. Under Local Law 196, additional Site Safety Training (SST) hours are required for workers on large construction projects.
The right training depends on the type of work performed.
Workers who perform duties in both environments may need to complete both programs to stay compliant and maintain safety on the job.
Workers seeking OSHA General Industry or Construction training online can register with OSHA Training School, which offers both 10-Hour and 30-Hour courses for each program. These fully online, interactive courses meet OSHA requirements and include engaging modules, quizzes, and official completion certificates. Upon completion, individuals receive their OSHA DOL card by mail. This online option allows workers and supervisors to improve their safety knowledge from anywhere.
Both OSHA General Industry and Construction training play an important role in protecting workers and maintaining compliance. General Industry focuses on controlled workplace hazards, while Construction training prepares workers for high-risk and changing job conditions. Choosing the right OSHA program increases hazard awareness and helps maintain safer worksites across all industries.
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