OSHA 10 Practice Test: How to Pass on Your First Try

Preparing for your OSHA 10 certification exam? You’re not alone. Over 1.3 million workers take OSHA training each year, and many feel anxiety about the test. But here’s the secret: most OSHA 10 exams aren’t about trick questions—they’re about hazard recognition and practical safety knowledge. With the right prep strategy and practice tests, you can walk into your official exam confident and ready to pass. In this guide, we’ll break down what OSHA 10 practice tests really cover, show you exactly what types of questions you’ll see, and give you a proven study strategy that works.

What Is the OSHA 10 Practice Test?

The OSHA 10 practice test is a simulation of the real OSHA 10-hour certification exam you’ll take through an authorized training provider. It’s designed to familiarize you with question formats, test your knowledge across all core safety topics, and identify gaps in your understanding before you take the official exam. Key points about OSHA 10 practice tests:

• They’re conceptual, not trick-based: Questions focus on hazard recognition and safety decision-making, not memorization.
• They cover all mandatory topics: Fall protection, ladders, scaffolding, electrical hazards, PPE, hazard communication, and more.
• Most are pass/fail at 80%: To pass an OSHA 10 course, you typically need an 80% score.
• You can retake them: Good training providers let you attempt tests multiple times, with the ability to review content between attempts.

Types of Questions You’ll See on OSHA 10 Exams

OSHA 10 exams typically use multiple question formats. Knowing what to expect reduces test anxiety and helps you answer faster.

Multiple Choice Questions

Most common format. You’re given a question and 4 options; choose the correct one. Example: Which of the following is required when working at heights above 6 feet? A) A warning sign B) A personal fall arrest system, guardrails, or safety net C) A spotter D) All of the above Answer: B (or possibly D, depending on context). The point is to recognize that OSHA requires protection for falls above 6 feet.

True/False Questions

Less common but possible. Evaluate a statement’s accuracy. Example: True or False: You can use the top step of a ladder to stand on. Answer: False. OSHA requires that ladder use never include standing on the top rung or step.

Multiple Select Questions

Variation on multiple choice. Multiple answers may be correct; you select all that apply. Example: Which of the following are OSHA-required fall protection methods? (Select all that apply) A) Guardrails B) Safety nets C) Personal fall arrest harnesses D) Audible alarms Correct Answers: A, B, C.

The Top Topics Covered on OSHA 10 Practice Tests

OSHA 10 covers foundational safety concepts that apply across construction and general industry. Here are the key topics and what you need to know:

1. Fall Protection (The #1 Violation & Topic)

Falls are the leading cause of construction fatalities. OSHA 10 dedicates significant time to this. What you need to know:

• Fall protection is required for work 6 feet or higher
• Three main methods: guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems (harness + lanyard + anchor)
• Common violations: no protection, improper harnesses, missing anchors
• Employers must have a written fall protection plan and train workers before exposure Practice test tips: Expect 3-5 questions on fall protection. Focus on “what is required” and “when is it required.”

2. Ladders (Second Most Cited Violation)

Ladder misuse causes preventable injuries every year. What you need to know:

• Never use a ladder as a scaffold or for purposes other than climbing
• Three-foot rule: ladders must extend 3 feet above the landing surface
• Never stand on the top rung or step
• Inspect ladders for damage before use; remove damaged ladders immediately
• Maintain proper angle: typically 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height (75-degree angle) Practice test tips: Expect 2-3 ladder questions. Many focus on improper setup or use.

3. Scaffolding

Scaffolding violations rank in the top OSHA violations. What you need to know:

• Scaffolds must be designed to support 4x the maximum intended load
• Guardrails and toe boards are required on all open sides
• Competent person must inspect scaffolds daily
• Platforms must be fully floored and level Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 scaffolding questions, focusing on guardrails and load capacity.

4. Electrical Hazards

5 workers are electrocuted each week in the U.S. What you need to know:

• Low voltage ≠ low hazard; always exercise caution
• GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection is required for many tools and equipment
• Avoid tools and equipment near power lines
• Damaged cords, wet conditions, and improper grounding are major hazards
• Hard hats protect against electrical energy up to 20,000 volts Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 electrical safety questions. Focus on recognizing hazards, not engineering details.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is the “last line of defense” against hazards, and proper fit is critical. What you need to know (updated Jan 2025):

• New requirement: PPE must properly fit each worker (effective Jan 13, 2025)
• Common PPE: hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, harnesses
• Employers provide PPE at no cost and must train workers on proper use and care
• Ill-fitting PPE reduces effectiveness and can introduce new hazards Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 PPE questions. Know the basics of what PPE is required for different hazards.

6. Hazard Communication (HazCom)

Workers have a “right to know” about chemicals and hazards in their workplace. What you need to know:

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must be available for all hazardous chemicals
• Labels on chemical containers must clearly identify hazards and precautions
• Employers must train workers on chemical hazards and safe handling before exposure
• The 16-section SDS format includes hazard classification, first-aid measures, and handling procedures Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 hazard communication questions. Focus on worker rights and access to information.

7. Struck-By and Caught-In Hazards

These account for many construction injuries and deaths. What you need to know:

• Struck-by hazards: being hit by tools, equipment, or materials
• Caught-in hazards: being caught between machinery, objects, or materials
• Prevention: proper equipment guarding, safe storage, clear work areas, traffic control Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 questions. Focus on prevention and hazard recognition.

8. Excavation and Trenching

Trenching is one of the most deadly construction activities. What you need to know:

• Protective systems required: sloping, shoring, or shielding (based on soil type and depth)
• Competent person must identify soil type and design protection system
• Safe access/egress is required; no jumping in/out of trenches
• Water accumulation is a serious hazard Practice test tips: Expect 1-2 trenching questions if you’re taking construction OSHA 10; less likely in general industry.

OSHA 10 Practice Test Question Examples

Here are 5 real-world style questions to help you prepare:

Question 1: Fall Protection

A worker is installing roofing at a height of 35 feet. What fall protection method is required?

1. A warning sign and spotter
2. A guardrail, safety net, or personal fall arrest system
3. Staying aware and being careful
4. Only if the employer provides equipment Correct Answer: B Why: OSHA requires one of three methods for falls 6+ feet. Awareness alone isn’t adequate.

Question 2: Ladder Safety

Which of the following is a violation of OSHA ladder safety standards?

1. Using a 20-foot extension ladder with the base 5 feet away from the wall
2. Extending the ladder 4 feet above the roof edge
3. Standing on the second step of a step ladder
4. Inspecting a ladder before use Correct Answer: A Why: Using 1 foot out per 4 feet high means a 20-foot ladder should be 5 feet out, but the angle would be wrong (too steep). Also, A violates the 3:1 ratio.

Question 3: Hazard Communication

Your coworker is handling a chemical they’ve never used before. Under OSHA standards, what must be available?

1. Only supervisor permission
2. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and proper labeling
3. On-the-job experience
4. The product manual Correct Answer: B Why: OSHA HazCom requires SDS and labels for all hazardous chemicals; worker must be trained.

Question 4: PPE

Under the OSHA PPE standard (updated Jan 2025), personal protective equipment must:

1. Be available in the workplace
2. Properly fit each affected employee
3. Meet ANSI standards
4. Both B and C Correct Answer: D (or B, depending on question source) Why: The Jan 2025 update explicitly requires proper fit, and PPE must meet safety standards.

Question 5: Electrical Safety

When working near electrical equipment, which of the following is the safest practice?

1. Wear insulated gloves and touch the equipment carefully
2. Use proper grounding and avoid contact with water
3. Only work if a supervisor is present
4. Keep a distance and use GFCI-protected tools and equipment Correct Answer: D Why: Avoiding electrical hazards (distance + GFCI protection) is safer than assuming protective measures will prevent accidents.

How to Study for OSHA 10 Exams: A Proven Strategy

Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Assessment (Free)

Before diving into full study, take a free OSHA 10 diagnostic quiz to see where you stand. This helps you focus on weak areas instead of reviewing material you already know. Try the free osha.study diagnostic quiz — it takes 10 minutes and tells you exactly which topics need work.

Step 2: Review Study Materials by Topic

Don’t try to cram everything at once. Study one topic per day:

• Day 1: Fall Protection
• Day 2: Ladders & Scaffolding
• Day 3: Electrical & PPE
• Day 4: Hazard Communication & Trenching For each topic, read explanations, watch videos, and take short quizzes. Tip: Use spaced repetition. Study material, wait 24 hours, then review again.

Step 3: Take Full-Length Practice Exams

Once you’ve reviewed core topics, take a complete 50-question practice test. What to do:

• Take it under timed conditions (about 1 hour for 50 questions)
• Don’t look up answers while taking the test
• Score yourself strictly (80% = pass) If you score less than 80%:
• Review the topics where you missed questions
• Retake the practice test 24 hours later

Step 4: Master the Weak Topics

If you consistently miss questions on fall protection or electrical hazards, drill those specific topics. Use topic-specific practice:

• Answer 10 questions on fall protection alone
• Score yourself
• Review misses
• Repeat until you consistently score 90%+

Step 5: Take Final Practice Exam

The day before your official exam, take one more full-length practice test to build confidence. Goal: Score 85%+ to ensure you’ll pass the real exam comfortably.

Common OSHA 10 Exam Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Mistake 1: Memorizing Without Understanding

Problem: You memorize “fall protection at 6 feet” but don’t understand why or the methods required. Solution: For each rule, ask “Why does OSHA require this?” and “What are the actual methods?”

Mistake 2: Ignoring the Hazard Communication Updates

Problem: HazCom is confusing; many skip detailed study. Solution: Remember: SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and labels. Workers have the “right to know.”

Mistake 3: Rushing Through Practice Tests

Problem: Finishing a practice exam too fast without careful thought. Solution: Spend 1-1.5 minutes per question. Read carefully; eliminate wrong answers first.

Mistake 4: Waiting Too Long to Start Studying

Problem: Starting prep 2 days before the exam. Solution: Plan at least 1-2 weeks of study time, with 30-60 minutes per day.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Recent OSHA Changes

Problem: Not knowing about the Jan 2025 PPE fit requirement or other updates. Solution: Use up-to-date study materials that reference 2025 OSHA standards.

Free vs. Paid OSHA 10 Practice Tests: What’s the Difference?

Free Practice Tests

Where to find them: OSHA.gov, OSHAcademy, various training provider websites Pros:

• No cost
• Good for familiarization with question types
• Help identify weak areas Cons:
• Often outdated
• May not cover all topics equally
• Limited explanations

Paid Study Bundles (Like osha.study)

What you get: Diagnostic quiz, study guides, full practice tests, topic-specific drills, progress tracking Pros:

• Current, updated material (2025 standards)
• Comprehensive explanations for every answer
• Topic-by-topic practice so you can drill weak areas
• Mobile-friendly so you can study on breaks
• Structured study plan = faster results Bottom line: Free practice tests are useful to start, but paid study bundles cut preparation time in half by focusing your effort on what you actually need to master.

What to Do If You Don’t Pass on Your First Try

Most training providers allow unlimited retakes at no extra cost. If you fail (score less than 80%):

1. Don’t panic. Many people retake; it’s normal.
2. Review missed topics in the course materials.
3. Take a practice test on just those topics before retaking the full exam.
4. Wait 24 hours before retaking the exam; your brain needs rest to consolidate learning.
5. Change your study approach: If reading wasn’t working, try videos. If videos weren’t working, drill practice questions. Reassuring fact: Most people pass on their second or third attempt once they identify their weak spots.

Ready to Study?

You now understand what OSHA 10 practice tests actually cover, what types of questions to expect, and a proven study strategy. Next steps:

1. Take the free osha.study diagnostic quiz to see which OSHA 10 course you need and where to focus study efforts.
2. Download the free OSHA 10 study guide (includes the top 10 hazards, key vocabulary, and sample questions).
3. Enroll in your official OSHA 10 course with an authorized training provider (360Training, ClickSafety, HSI, etc.).
4. Use osha.study’s $29 practice bundle for full exams, topic drills, and progress tracking. You’ve got this. With consistent practice and the right study strategy, you’ll pass your OSHA 10 on your first attempt.

FAQ

How long are OSHA 10 practice tests?

Typically 50-75 questions, taking 1-1.5 hours depending on your speed.

Can I take an OSHA 10 practice test multiple times?

Yes. Most good training providers allow unlimited retakes so you can improve weak areas.

What’s a passing score on OSHA 10?

Generally 80%, though some providers require 75-85%. Check your provider’s requirements.

How many questions are on the real OSHA 10 exam?

Usually 50-75 questions, depending on your provider and industry track (construction vs. general industry).

Do I need to score 100% on practice tests to pass the real exam?

No. Consistently scoring 85%+ on practice tests means you’ll pass the real exam (which only requires 80%).