In order to work in the cleaning industry and ensure safety for both employees and customers, it is important to obtain an OSHA Cleaning Certification. This article will outline the different types of certificates available, the training courses necessary to pass the certification exams and the costs associated with obtaining these certifications.
Why Should You Get Certified by OSHA?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency that regulates safety in the workplace. In order to work in the cleaning industry, it is beneficial to be certified by OSHA. This ensures that you are familiar with the latest safety regulations and best practices. Certification also shows potential employers that you are committed to safety in the workplace.
Types of Cleaning Certificates and Training Offered By OSHA
OSHA does not offer a specific cleaning certification. However, there are a number of Safety and Health certifications that cover cleaning. These include the following:
-OSHA Professional Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate: This certification covers basic safety and health hazards in the workplace. The course is 10 hours long and can be taken online. Students will take a minimum of courses with costs dependent on the college or university attended.
-OSHA Professional Safety & Health Specialist Certificate: This certification is designed for managers or those with at least two years of experience. The course is designed online and can be taken in a monthly format. Costs are dependent upon the college or university attended.
-OSHA Professional Safety & Health Officer Certificate: With a requirement of five years of experience, this course is a comprehensive program of safety requirements, special medical situations, and other managerial or supervisory situations. The course will take from 3 to 6 months and attendees must become an Outreach Trainer. Costs can range from $5,500 to $7,500, depending on the college or university attended.
-CPR/First Aid Certification: This certification is not required by OSHA, but it is recommended for all employees who work in the cleaning industry. CPR and first aid training can help save lives in the event of an accident or injury.
-Hazardous Materials Certification: This certification is required for employees who work with or around hazardous materials. The course covers topics such as safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste.
-Blood Borne Pathogen Certification: This certification is required for employees who work with or around blood or other bodily fluids. The course covers topics such as universal precautions and proper disposal of contaminated materials.
The costs of these courses vary depending on the length and complexity of the course. OSHA 10-hour courses typically cost between $100 and $200, while OSHA 30-hour courses can cost up to $500. CPR and first aid courses typically cost between $50 and $100. Hazardous materials courses can range in price from $200 to $1,000 depending on the type of certification you need. Blood-borne pathogen courses typically cost between $50 and $100.
When choosing a training course, it is important to make sure that the provider is accredited by OSHA. Accredited providers have been vetted by OSHA and have met certain standards for quality and safety. You can find a list of accredited providers on the OSHA website.
Once you have completed a training course, you will need to pass an exam in order to receive your certification. The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider, but is typically between $50 and $100.
There are a number of benefits to getting certified by OSHA. Certification shows potential employers that you are committed to safety in the workplace. It also allows you to stay up-to-date on the latest safety regulations and best practices. Certification can also help you get discounts on insurance premiums.
Other Training and Courses That Are Certified By OSHA
Although OSHA itself does not have a cleaning certificate program, there are other organizations that do.
IICRC
The Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a nonprofit organization that offers restoration certification for cleaners. The IICRC has a number of different restoration certification programs, including those for carpet cleaners, upholstery cleaners and water damage restoration technicians.
The cost of IICRC certification varies depending on the type of course you take. Carpet cleaning courses typically cost between $300 and $400, while water damage restoration courses can cost up to $1,000.
In order to become certified by the IICRC, you must complete an accredited training course and pass an exam. You can find a list of accredited providers on the IICRC website.
IJCSA
The International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) is a professional association for janitorial service providers. The IJCSA offers multiple certification programs, all within the annual membership dues charged. The cost for membership in the IJCSA is approximately $320 per year.
NADCA
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) is a professional association for companies that provide air duct cleaning services. The NADCA offers certification with a yearly membership fee. The initial “membership package” includes training and certification. The cost is $1,675 for certification and membership dues.
Conclusion
If you are interested in becoming certified in the cleaning industry, there are a number of different organizations that offer certification. The most well-known organization is OSHA, which offers certificates for employees who work with or around hazardous materials. There are also a number of other organizations that offer certification in specific areas of cleaning.