OSHA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield OSHA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Automatic or semi-automatic feeding methods reduce risk primarily by doing what? → Keeping the operator's hands out of the danger zone
2. Covers over holes in walking-working surfaces must be able to support at least how many times the maximum intended load? → Two times
3. Which SDS section contains first-aid measures? → Section 4
4. What is the main function of machine guarding? → To protect operators from moving parts
5. According to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38, which of the following is a minimum required element of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)? → Procedures for accounting for all employees after an evacuation.
6. What is the primary purpose of a written hazard communication program? → To document how the employer will meet HazCom requirements
7. What does OSHA require employers to provide to employees who work on or near exposed energized electrical parts? → Insulating protective equipment appropriate for the voltage
8. When should safety training be provided to a new employee? → Before they begin hazardous work
9. What is the minimum number of employees required on a confined space entry team under OSHA standards? → At least one entrant and one attendant
10. Which of these is a right guaranteed to workers under OSHA? → To review records of work-related injuries and illnesses
11. How long must an employer retain OSHA 300 Logs, 300A summaries, and 301 forms? → 5 years
12. How often should respirator users generally check the seal? → Each time the respirator is donned
13. How many sections are in a standardized Safety Data Sheet (SDS) under HazCom 2012? → 16
14. What does the acronym PASS describe? → How to operate a fire extinguisher
15. What information must be included in a written Respiratory Protection Program required by OSHA? → Procedures for selecting, using, fitting, inspecting, cleaning, and storing respirators
16. For a scaffold platform in general industry, what is the maximum allowable gap between the platform edge and the uprights on the front face? → 9.5 inches
17. Why is housekeeping important for workplace safety? → It reduces slip, trip, and fire hazards
18. Practicing evacuation through fire drills primarily helps achieve what? → Familiarity with routes and a faster, calmer response
19. What is the main purpose of a written respiratory protection program? → Ensuring proper selection, use, and maintenance of respirators
20. PPE is considered which level in the hierarchy of hazard controls? → The last line of defense
21. A tagout device alone is used instead of a lock. What must the employer ensure? → The tag provides protection equivalent to a lockout
22. When working near overhead power lines, a crane operator must maintain: → A minimum approach distance based on line voltage
23. What is a 'competent person' as defined by OSHA construction standards? → One capable of identifying hazards and authorized to correct them
24. Which type of PPE is specifically required when working with chemicals that may splash? → Chemical splash goggles
25. Double-insulated power tools are marked with which symbol? → A square within a square
26. What is the OSHA recordkeeping form used to log individual workplace injuries and illnesses? → OSHA Form 301
27. When must guardrail systems be installed on walking-working surfaces? → On any open-sided surface 4 feet or more above a lower level
28. An inspector arrives unannounced. Can a worker representative accompany the OSHA compliance officer? → Yes, an authorized employee representative may accompany the inspection
29. Which document must employers display to inform workers of their OSHA rights? → The OSHA 'It's the Law' poster
30. A midrail on a guardrail system must be installed at what height when there is no wall or parapet at least 21 inches high? → Midway between the top rail and the surface