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What is the difference between OSHA Competent Person for Silica Training and OSHA Silica Awareness Training?

Introduction:

In 2023, around 2.3 million U.S. workers were exposed to silica dust on their job sites, especially those in the manufacturing and construction industries. The California Department of Public Health also reported more than 70 cases of silicosis, with 10 fatalities, in 2019. These alarming stats underscore the need for strict safety measures against respirable crystalline silica dust. To protect workers from the hazards of silica dust, OSHA has established specific standards: 29 CFR 1926. 1153 for construction and 1910.1053 for the general industry and maritime. Workers exposed to silica levels at or above the action levels of 25 μg/m³ for more than 8 hours' time-weighted average must comply with OSHA’s silica standards.

OSHA addresses the silica dust-related risks by mandating training programs designed for specific roles and levels of exposure. This makes it crucial to understand the differences between Silica Awareness Training and the Competent Person for Silica Training. In this blog post, we'll cover the key differences between these two training courses and help you determine which one best fits your role.

What is OSHA Silica Awareness Training?

Silica Awareness Training is an introductory-level course that teaches workers about the dangers of respirable crystalline silica and protection methods from overexposure. This training is important as it raises awareness about workplace silica hazards. It also align with OSHA’s goal of reducing silica-related illnesses such as lung cancer, silicosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). While this training doesn’t qualify workers to perform exposure control tasks or supervise others, it lays the foundation for safe work practices at silica-present worksites.

What is covered in Silica Awareness Training?

The key points given below are covered in the Silica Awareness Training:

What is respirable crystalline silica, and where is it mainly found?
Adverse health effects of silica exposure.
OSHA’s permissible exposure limits (PELs) and action levels.
Overview of OSHA's silica standards (29 CFR 1926. 1153 & 1910.1053).
Identifying tasks that expose workers to silica dust hazards.
Basic silica exposure control methods (wet methods, PPE, and ventilation)
Function of safety data sheets (SDS) and signage.
Workers' rights and employer's duties under OSHA.

Who should take OSHA Silica Awareness Training?

OSHA Silica Awareness Training is best suited for:

Workers who may come in contact with silica dust but are not responsible for its control measures.
Support and administrative staff who may be exposed at worksites.
New employees who need foundational knowledge before receiving job-specific training.
Individuals working in manufacturing, construction, or demolition sites where exposure to silica containing materials is possible.

Workers who are not designated as “competent persons” should still receive this training to understand the risks and safe work practices when working around silica.

Is Silica Awareness Training mandatory for all workers?

OSHA does not mandate Silica Awareness Training for every worker. However, employers must train all the employee exposed to respirable crystalline silica above the action level (25 μg/m³ more than 8-hour TWA).

Silica Awareness Training is considered a best practice and is often included in an organization’s broader silica control plan. This helps all the individuals, even those who aren't directly exposed to high-risk silica related tasks.

While not mandatory, the Silica Awareness Training is a smart and proactive step that ensures compliance with OSHA and develops a safety-first culture.

What is an OSHA Competent Person for Silica Training?

This training is a more advanced, role-specific program crafted for individuals responsible for identifying and correcting silica-related hazards at their job sites. In contrast to the general awareness training, this course transcends the basic silica knowledge. It equips the designated workers with the skill set required to enforce and implement silica control measures under OSHA's standard. A pivotal role in keeping up with compliance, performing hazard assessments, and making sure that exposure controls, such as the engineering systems and personal protective equipment (PPE), stay effective.

What does "Competent Person" mean under OSHA?

OSHA defines a competent person as someone who meets the following criteria:

Can identify existing and predictable hazards at the worksite or surroundings.
Is authorized to take immediate corrective measures to eliminate those hazards.

Therefore, in the context of silica exposure, the competent person must understand the risks of respirable crystalline silica exposure and be able to assess, monitor, and implement safe work practices at worksites.

What topics are included in Competent Person for Silica Training?

The competent person for silica training covers the topics including:

The health consequences of respirable crystalline silica.
In-depth review of OSHA's silica standards for construction and general industry.
Methods to identify tasks that generate silica dust.
How to Perform exposure assessments and monitor air quality.
Choosing and applying proper engineering and administrative controls.
Maintaining and establishing written exposure control plans.
Ensure proper use of PPE and respirator.
Recordkeeping and site inspection protocols.
Leadership and communication responsibilities of a competent person.

Many competent person courses also include interactive components and case scenarios to for better understanding.

Who qualifies as a Competent Person?

A competent person is typically:

A seasoned foreman, safety manager, supervisor, or a designated employee.
Anyone well-versed in technical knowledge of silica hazards and site authority to implement changes.
An individual who has completed the training and is recognized by their employer as a qualified person under OSHA’s definition.

Employers must designate a competent person based on their experience and training, not just on course completion.

Is This Training Required on All Silica-related Job Sites?

In short, yes. OSHA requires a competent person at every worksite where workers may be exposed to respirable crystalline silica. According to 29 CFR 1926.1153 (g)(4), the competent person must be qualified to identify the hazards and implement remedial actions.

In a nutshell, if silica-generating activities are being done, then a Competent person must be present to handle these operations safely.

Notable Differences Between the Silica Awareness & Competent Person Training

Many people find it confusing to understand the differences between the 2-silica training and which one is right for them. Both these training courses aim to reduce silica-related hazards, but they differ in content depth, scope and level of responsibility. Below, we have some key differences between both the courses to help you choose the right one.

Critical Differences Between the Two Courses

Silica Awareness Training covers the basics. For example, what silica is, how and where its exposure occurs, and how to safely work around it.

Competent Person Training goes beyond the basics as it prepares the workers to perform hazard assessments, impose controls, and make safety decisions.

Can One Worker Get Both Trainings?

Yes, one worker can take both training courses, especially if they are transitioning to supervisory roles. Additionally, workers with the right training and experience may be appointed by their supervisors as Competent Persons.

How do the Job Duties differ after Completing Each of the Trainings?

Those trained for the Awareness training are expected to recognize silica hazards and follow safety protocols.

The Silica Competent Persons training prepares individuals to monitor, evaluate and control silica exposure. They are responsible for taking charge and making corrective actions immediately when needed.

Is Competent Person Training More Detailed or Hands-On?

Yes, it is. This training offers deeper insight into OSHA standards, air monitoring, exposure control plans, and PPE management. It is more practical and scenario-based learning to help individuals step into site leadership roles.

Both these training courses play a critical role in silica safety program. Awareness Training builds foundational knowledge, while Competent Person Training prepares workers to lead hazard prevention efforts. understanding the differences will help you choose the right course and get certified.

How to Choose Which Training Your Team Requires?

As an employer, whether you oversee general workers or lead safety teams, it’s essential to understand each type of training to safeguard your team from the adverse effects of silica exposure. Follow the steps below to pick out the training that best matches your team's responsibilities.

Go for Silica Awareness Training if your team members are exposed to silica dust but aren't responsible for conducting hazard assessment and controls. It is ideal for general workers, new hires, and support staff.
Choose Competent Person Training if your onsite team needs to identify silica hazards, apply safety protocols, and implement corrective actions. This training is mostly needed for foremen, safety leads, and supervisors.

The Wrap-Up

Silica exposure is a serious hazard due to its significant health risks, and the only way to tackle it is through proper training and meeting the OSHA requirements. If you opt for OSHA Silica Awareness Training, it will offer fundamental knowledge of silica hazards. If you opt for the OSHA Competent Person Training it will help you manage the on-site hazards, both training courses are essential for a safer work environment. In addition, investment in proper training can avert the possibility of costly accidents and downtimes. So, choose the training that matches you the best and get certified today!