As we approach 2025, construction managers face evolving safety challenges that demand comprehensive training programs. Some training might be obvious, and even required. But the gray areas in safety education can leave managers scratching their heads. Here are just a few crucial training areas to consider in 2025—plus how to take the stress out of safety education.
Critical refreshers and updates
First and foremost, don’t forget critical renewal and update training for team members who need it:
- OSHA requires that employees get general safety training and specialized safety training (as needed) at least every 12 months
- Specialized training may be required at different intervals. For example, electrical safety training (NFPA 70E standard) is required every 3 years for employees who work around electrical hazards.
Updates to standards or the introduction of new job site hazards will also prompt the need for more training. The 2024 update to NFPA 70E, for example, brings significant changes to electrical safety requirements that teams must understand and implement. Similarly, health hazard refreshers take on new importance as our understanding of workplace exposures evolves and changes—from standards for proper respirator use to new chemical exposure limits.
Excavation and trenching
Recent years have seen a concerning uptick in trench-related fatalities—and OSHA has taken action. Construction projects that involve trenching must appoint a “Competent Person” that oversees trenching activities, and that person must undergo training that aligns to OSHA standards. This training includes understanding soil mechanics; having knowledge of protective systems; and recognizing warning signs like water accumulation and surface cracks.
MEWP training
If your job site uses vertical lift or boom lift equipment, MEWP training is required. But it’s not just for those operating the equipment; OSHA recommends anyone working around this equipment undergo safety training. For vertical-lift platforms, where stability and load distribution are key concerns, you’ll need Category A training. Category B focuses on the safety issues around boom-type lifts—including reach, stability and wind effects.
OSHA 10 & 30
While strongly recommended, OSHA 10- and 30-hour training courses are technically voluntary; however, OSHA notes that “some states have enacted laws mandating the training” and that “some employers, unions, organizations or other jurisdictions may also require this training.”
This fundamental course creates a common safety language across the workforce, teaching essential concepts that apply to every aspect of construction work. An investment in this training often pays for itself through reduced incident rates and improved project efficiency.
Confined spaces
Confined space training is another grey area: OSHA requires that a “competent person” oversee work in confined spaces, but it does not dictate the training or certification required—only that the assigned person be experienced and knowledgeable. In this vein, it pays to have your designated competent person—and anyone who might be working in confined spaces—undergo annual confined spaces training.
Training should cover not only the technical aspects of atmospheric testing and ventilation but also emergency response protocols. Workers need to understand both the physical and psychological challenges of confined space work, learning to recognize and respond to hazards before they become life-threatening.
Your 2025 training implementation strategy
Keeping safety training requirements and recommendations straight is a challenge in itself—let alone coordinating and enforcing the right training across your workforce. That’s why it pays to have an expert partner who can consult on the types of training you’ll need, and offer flexible training course options.
On Site Medical works with SafetyHelpToday.com to keep clients up to speed on safety and provide OSHA-friendly training courses that are relevant and engaging. View their full calendar of training courses here and cement your 2025 training plan today!