Here's what a lot of people get wrong about OSHA 10: it's not federally required.
OSHA's federal regulations don't mandate that workers complete the OSHA 10 Outreach Training Program. What they do require is adequate safety training — but the specific OSHA 10 card is a state, employer, or project-level requirement in most cases.
That said, many states and types of work do require it. This guide breaks down where it's mandatory, where it's expected, and where it's optional.
States That Mandate OSHA 10 for Construction
The following states have laws requiring OSHA 10 (or equivalent) for workers on public or state-funded construction projects:
| State | Who It Applies To | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York | All construction workers on public sites | One of the strictest — also applies to NYC private projects over $250K |
| Massachusetts | Public construction contracts | Required for workers and supervisors on state-funded projects |
| Connecticut | Public construction | OSHA 10 required for workers; OSHA 30 for supervisors |
| New Hampshire | Public construction projects | OSHA 10 for workers; OSHA 30 for site supervisors |
| Rhode Island | Public works construction | Applies to contractors and subcontractors |
| Missouri | Public works over $50,000 | OSHA 10 required for workers; OSHA 30 for supervisors |
| Tennessee | Some state-funded projects | Check with the contracting agency for specific project requirements |
| Nevada | Public works | OSHA 10 for workers; supervisors need OSHA 30 |
Important: State laws change. Always verify current requirements with your state's labor department or the project owner before assuming what's required.
New York: The Strictest OSHA 10 Requirements
New York deserves its own section because the requirements are significantly stricter than other states.
New York State:
- All workers on public construction projects must have OSHA 10
- Supervisors must have OSHA 30
- Applies to contractors and subcontractors
New York City (additional requirements):
- Private construction projects over $250,000 in contract value require OSHA 10 for all workers
- Projects over $5 million require OSHA 30 for site safety managers
- Workers must carry their DOL card on-site
NYC's Local Law 196 (enacted 2017) significantly expanded requirements and has been a major driver of OSHA training in the private construction sector nationwide.
States Where OSHA 10 Is Employer-Required (Not State Law)
Even in states without a legal mandate, OSHA 10 is often required by:
- General contractors on large commercial or industrial projects
- Federal project contractors (military bases, federal buildings, highways)
- Union agreements for specific trades
- Insurance requirements for certain coverage levels
In practice, OSHA 10 has become a de facto requirement across the US construction industry — even in states without laws mandating it.
Does OSHA 10 Expire?
OSHA doesn't set an expiration date on the 10-hour card. Once you have it, it's technically valid indefinitely.
However:
- Some employers or job sites require refresher training every 3–5 years
- Some states are moving toward expiration requirements
- NYC has a 5-year renewal requirement for certain roles
Best practice: Treat OSHA 10 as a foundation, not a one-time credential. Safety standards evolve, and staying current matters.
General Industry vs. Construction: Make Sure You Pick the Right One
OSHA 10 comes in two versions:
- OSHA 10 Construction — covers hazards in construction (fall protection, scaffolding, excavation, electrical)
- OSHA 10 General Industry — covers manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare, retail hazards
These are different certifications. If you work in construction, you need the Construction version. Getting the wrong one means starting over.
Not sure which applies to your work? Take our free quiz — it asks about your specific role and gives you the right answer.
What If You're in a State Without a Mandate?
No state law doesn't mean no requirement. Check:
- Your employer — many construction companies require it regardless of state law
- The project owner — GCs frequently require OSHA 10 as a bid or contract condition
- Your trade union — many require it as part of membership
- Your insurance — some commercial liability policies require documented safety training
Even without a mandate, OSHA 10 has become the minimum expected safety credential in construction across the country.
The Bottom Line
OSHA 10 is legally required in 8+ states for construction workers, and informally expected nearly everywhere else. If you work in construction, manufacturing, or any safety-sensitive industry, it's worth having — regardless of whether your state mandates it.
Before you sign up, make sure you know which version you need (construction vs. general industry) and what level is required for your role.
Not sure? Take the free 3-minute quiz — get a personalized recommendation for your specific situation.