CTU-OSHA Professional Development Trainer Program: Empowering Educators with Essential Safety Skills
The Chicago Teachers Union Foundation (CTUF) Quest Center partnering with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Health Issues and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to present the OSHA Professional Development Trainer Program. This unique initiative will equip career and technical educators with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to teach vital Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) General Industry courses. By participating in this program, educators will receive invaluable training and the credentials needed to deliver OSHA-certified instruction to their students.
We were delighted to have nine Career and Technical Education (CTE) CTU members and 2 New York State Public Employee Federation members participate in an intensive, in-person, 2-week summer professional development program instructed by Brian Bisson, Jr., AFT, that allows participants to earn an OSHA General Industry trainer card. This credential allows educators to conduct 10- and 30-hour General Industry safety classes in person, awarding OSHA student completion cards to those who successfully complete the training. The program is meticulously structured to ensure that participants meet the rigorous training and industry safety experience requirements mandated by OSHA. The most important aspect is that the teacher is part of the OSHA authorization, whereas completing it online for students provides much lower learning value.
Teachers presented OSHA lessons to show the power of “hands on” learning!
To become an authorized OSHA trainer, participants must complete two essential courses during the program:
- OSHA #511 – Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry: This prerequisite course is designed to familiarize participants with OSHA standards and regulations. It provides a solid foundation for educators, enabling them to confidently address student inquiries about workplace safety.
- OSHA #501 – Trainer Course in Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry: Building on the knowledge gained in OSHA #511, this course prepares participants to become authorized OSHA trainers. It covers advanced topics in OSHA standards and equips educators with the skills necessary to teach OSHA courses effectively.
De’Meica Mathews, Health Science Teacher at Dunbar HS
Safety is a team effort that starts with us. Spotting hazards and staying proactive isn’t just a task—it’s a mindset.
– De’Meica Mathews, OSHA 2024 Participant
The CTU OSHA Professional Development Trainer Program is more than just a professional development opportunity—it is an investment in the future of career and technical education. By empowering educators with the tools and credentials to teach OSHA safety standards, this program contributes to creating safer workplaces and better-prepared students. Participants will leave the program with a valuable OSHA General Industry Trainer card and the confidence and expertise to make a lasting impact in their schools and communities.
Questions about OSHA Training? Please reach out to Michael Moriarty at [email protected].