OSHA TRAINING IN NEW JERSEY

Most OSHA Standards and Regulations are enforced by PEOSH, with a few exceptions:

• NJAC 12:100-8 replaces 29 CFR 1910 Subpart L with PEOSH-specific standards for firefighters.

• The Federal OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) is adopted as NJAC 12:100-7, serving as the foundation for hazard communication in New Jersey.

New Jersey’s State Plan consists of two distinct standards and involves four key agencies. While the majority of the Safety Training Standards are based on or resemble Federal OSHA Standards, there are some unique provisions.

For public sector entities, the following agencies oversee compliance:

• New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDLWD): Enforces safety standards and handles safety complaints.

• New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH): Manages health hazards complaints and enforces Indoor Air Quality Standards.

• Office of Public Workers’ Occupational Safety and Health (OPEOSH): Directs inspections, both routine and complaint-driven, under NJDLWD’s authority.

Private sector employers in New Jersey do not follow PEOSH standards; instead, they comply with Federal OSHA standards. Public sector employers, however, must adhere strictly to PEOSH training standards and also meet applicable Federal OSHA training requirements. Thankfully, there is significant overlap between the two, making compliance manageable.

Some PEOSH standards are unique and do not have federal equivalents, including:

• Indoor Air Quality Standard (NJAC 12:100-13)

• Indoor Firing Ranges Standard (NJAC 12:100-8)

Regarding OSHA training in New Jersey, safety training courses—commonly referred to as DOL Cards—are not mandated by law for workers. However, some employers may require completion of OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour Construction training to promote construction site safety awareness.