Workplace Safety Certifications Directory (2026)

If you work in construction, manufacturing, warehousing, or any industry where people face physical hazards, you probably need at least one safety certification. The question is which one.

Not sure where to start? Try our What Certification Do I Need? guide or compare all certifications side by side.

How Safety Certifications Work

Most workplace safety certifications aren’t really “certifications” in the traditional sense. OSHA doesn’t certify individuals. Instead, you complete training through authorized providers and receive a DOL (Department of Labor) completion card or employer-verified credential.

That said, the industry calls them certifications, employers require them, and you need them to work. So we’ll use the term everyone understands.

Here’s what you need to know about how they work:

• OSHA Outreach cards (OSHA 10 and OSHA 30) are issued through OSHA-authorized trainers. You get a DOL wallet card after completing the course.
• Employer-specific certifications (forklift, confined space, fall protection) are the employer’s responsibility. Your employer must train you and document it. There’s no universal card.
• Professional certifications (CSP, ASP, CIH) are issued by credentialing bodies like the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). These require education, experience, and passing an exam.

OSHA Outreach Training Cards

These are the most common safety certifications across all industries. They come in two levels (10-hour and 30-hour) and two versions (Construction and General Industry).

Not sure which OSHA card you need? Read our guide: OSHA 10 vs OSHA 30: Which Do You Need?

Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZWOPER)

HAZWOPER certifications are required under 29 CFR 1910.120 for workers involved in hazardous waste cleanup, emergency response, and hazardous material handling.

Equipment and Task-Specific Certifications

These certifications address specific hazards and equipment. Your employer is responsible for providing this training under OSHA standards.

Which Certification Should You Get First?

That depends on your industry and role.

If you work in construction: Start with OSHA 10 Construction. It’s the most widely required entry-level card and you can get it online in a few days. If you’re a supervisor or foreman, you’ll also need OSHA 30 Construction.

If you work in a warehouse or factory: Get OSHA 10 General Industry. If you operate a forklift, your employer must provide forklift certification training.

If you work with hazardous materials: You’ll need a HAZWOPER certification at the appropriate level. Your employer should determine whether you need the 24-hour or 40-hour course.

If you’re building a safety career: Start with the OSHA card for your industry, then look at professional certifications like CSP or ASP. See our guide on safety certifications that boost your salary.

Certifications That Pay the Most

Not all safety certifications have the same career impact. Professional credentials like the CSP (Certified Safety Professional) have the strongest correlation with higher salaries. According to BLS data, occupational health and safety specialists earn a median salary of $78,570 per year, but those with advanced certifications often earn well above $100,000.

Read our full breakdown: Top Safety Certifications That Increase Your Salary

How We Research Certification Information

Every certification page on this site is researched using official OSHA standards, the Code of Federal Regulations, and state regulatory agency publications. We verify costs against authorized training providers. Salary data comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Read our editorial policy and methodology for details on our research process.