United States
Hong KongOSHA 1926: what the exam asks
The exam asks for trigger heights, reporting deadlines, capacity multiples and which subpart governs an activity. Almost all of it is a lookup if the standards are tabbed by subpart and then by provision.
General Requirements is 25 questions and most of the answers are in 29 CFR 1926. Learning to navigate it is worth more than learning it.
The subparts that matter
| Subpart | Covers |
|---|---|
| M | Fall protection |
| L | Scaffolds |
| X | Ladders and stairways |
| P | Excavations |
| CC | Cranes and derricks |
| K | Electrical |
| Q | Concrete and masonry |
Knowing the letter takes you to the right part of the book before you have read a word. Tab by subpart first, then by provision within it.
The reporting deadlines
Eight hours to report a work-related fatality. Twenty-four hours for an inpatient hospitalization, an amputation or the loss of an eye. Both under 29 CFR 1904.39.
Five years for OSHA 300 log retention. Fifteen working days to contest a citation.
A fatality is eight hours. Everything else reportable is twenty-four. Questions offer both numbers on both scenarios and the pairing is the whole test.
Competent and qualified
Two defined terms doing different work. A competent person is capable of identifying hazards and is authorized to take prompt corrective action, at 29 CFR 1926.32(f).
A qualified person has a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, or extensive knowledge and experience, at 29 CFR 1926.32(m).
Authority against expertise. Excavation inspections need a competent person; formwork removal plans need a qualified one.
Citations
A citation must be posted for three days or until the violation is corrected, whichever is longer. An employer has fifteen working days to contest.
Common questions
What does the NASCLA exam ask about OSHA?
Trigger heights, reporting deadlines, capacity multiples and which subpart governs an activity. Mostly lookups if your standards are tabbed.
How long do I have to report a fatality?
8 hours. Inpatient hospitalization, amputation or loss of an eye is 24 hours.
What is the difference between a competent and a qualified person?
A competent person identifies hazards and is authorized to correct them. A qualified person has a degree, certificate or extensive knowledge and experience.
How long to contest a citation?
15 working days.
How should I tab the OSHA standards?
By subpart first, then by provision. Knowing that M is fall protection and P is excavation saves the search.