Top 10 General Labor Certifications

Certifications are important for general laborers in the job market because they provide employers with tangible evidence of a person's qualifications and abilities. Certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has achieved a certain level of competency within their field, which can make them stand out from the competition. They also provide proof of a worker's commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which is essential for career advancement. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for higher wages and more job security, as employers are willing to pay more for an employee who has proven themselves through certification.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for General Laborers and explain how they can help enhance their career prospects.

What are General Labor Certifications?

General labor certification is a process administered by the United States Department of Labor that helps employers to recruit and hire foreign workers on a permanent basis. It is designed to ensure that foreign workers are not displacing U.S. workers for available positions and that the wages and working conditions of the foreign worker will not adversely affect those of similarly employed U.S. workers. The employer must demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position, either through advertising or other recruitment efforts, before they may petition for a foreign worker to fill the job opening. The employer must then submit an application with supporting evidence to prove their need for a foreign worker, including job descriptions, proof of salary offered, and other relevant materials. Once approved, the employer can then file an immigrant visa petition with the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in order to obtain permanent residency status for the foreign worker.

The general labor certification process can be beneficial to employers who are unable to find qualified individuals in their local area or who require highly specialized skills that cannot be found within their workforce pool. By obtaining an approved labor certification from the Department of Labor, employers can save time and money on recruiting efforts as well as provide stability to their workforce by having access to permanent employees who have already been vetted by USCIS for legal immigration status in the US. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool for both employers and foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities in America, creating a pathway towards lawful permanent residence in the US that would otherwise not exist without this process in place.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various certifications available for general labor and select the one that best matches your job requirements. Also, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes to the certification requirements and keep a copy of your certification in a safe place.

Related: What does a General Labor do?

Top 10 General Labor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to General Labors today.

1. OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification

OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification is a certification program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to provide workers with safety and health training. The program is designed to help employers reduce workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses. It covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, machine guarding, personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety, electrical safety, and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification course typically takes two days to complete. It can be taken in a classroom setting or online. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $75 - $150.

To get the certification, you must attend an approved OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Training Course and pass an exam at the end of the course with a minimum score of 70%. Upon successful completion of the course and passing of the exam, you will receive your official OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification card.

2. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core Curriculum

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core Curriculum is an industry-recognized training program that provides a comprehensive foundation of basic construction knowledge. It is designed to provide entry-level craft professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to begin a career in the construction industry. The NCCER Core Curriculum consists of five modules: Introduction to Craft Skills, Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, and Introduction to Power Tools. Each module contains several topics that are designed to help craft professionals understand the basics of safety, math, hand tools, and power tools.

The NCCER Core Curriculum typically takes 8-10 hours to complete depending on the individual’s learning pace. It can be completed online or in a classroom setting. To get started with the NCCER Core Curriculum, individuals must first register with an accredited NCCER training provider. Once registered, they will be able to access the curriculum materials online or in a classroom setting.

The cost of the NCCER Core Curriculum varies depending on where it is taken and how it is delivered (e.g., online or in person). Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$500 for the entire course.

3. American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a certification program that recognizes safety professionals who have demonstrated competency in the field. The CSP credential is the highest level of professional recognition available to safety practitioners and is widely recognized as the gold standard for safety professionals.

To become a Certified Safety Professional, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an examination. The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a safety-related field such as occupational health, industrial hygiene, environmental health, or engineering. You must also have at least four years of full-time safety experience in order to qualify for the exam.

The CSP examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately five hours to complete. It covers topics such as risk assessment, hazard control, environmental management systems, emergency preparedness and response, workers' compensation programs, and legal issues related to safety.

The cost of taking the CSP exam varies depending on your ASSP membership status. For nonmembers, it costs $695; for members, it costs $450; and for student members, it costs $225.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will be granted the title of Certified Safety Professional (CSP). This designation will demonstrate your commitment to excellence in safety practice and provide employers with evidence that you are knowledgeable about current best practices in workplace safety.

4. International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Operator Certification

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Operator Certification is a qualification that demonstrates the operator’s knowledge and skill in operating powered access equipment. This certification is recognized worldwide as the standard for safe and effective use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

It typically takes around two days to complete the IPAF Operator Certification, depending on the experience of the operator. The course consists of both theoretical and practical training, which covers topics such as pre-use checks, operation techniques, safety procedures, and maintenance.

To get an IPAF Operator Certification, operators must attend an approved training course with an accredited IPAF Training Centre. Once they have completed the course successfully, they will be issued with a PAL Card (Powered Access Licence), which is valid for five years.

The cost of an IPAF Operator Certification varies depending on the type of MEWP being used and where it is located. However, most courses cost between £150-£200 per person.

5. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively perform welding tasks. The AWS Certified Welder Program is designed to provide employers and customers with assurance that certified welders have the skills and knowledge necessary to produce quality welds in accordance with industry standards.

It typically takes about 6-12 months of preparation, practice, and testing to become an AWS Certified Welder. Preparation for the exam includes studying welding theory, safety practices, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and hands-on welding experience. To become certified, applicants must pass a written test as well as a practical welding test.

To get an AWS Certified Welder certification, you must first complete an approved training program or apprenticeship program. This can be done through a trade school or community college. After completing the training program or apprenticeship, you will need to take the AWS Certified Welder Exam which consists of both a written and practical test. The written portion covers topics such as welding principles, safety practices, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and other related topics while the practical portion involves performing actual welds on various materials in accordance with industry standards.

The cost of becoming an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on the type of training program you choose to pursue (e.g., trade school vs community college). Generally speaking though it can range from $1,000 - $3,000 for tuition fees plus additional costs for supplies like safety gear and textbooks.

6. National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) Crane Operator Certification

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification for crane operators. The NCCCO certification program is designed to ensure that crane operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely operate cranes in a variety of environments.

The NCCCO certification process involves a written exam, a practical exam, and a background check. The written exam covers topics such as crane safety, rigging principles, load dynamics, and signal communication. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a crane in various scenarios.

It typically takes between four and six months to complete the entire NCCCO certification process. Applicants must first register with the NCCCO and pay an application fee before taking either the written or practical exams. After passing both exams, applicants must submit a background check form and pay an additional fee before receiving their certification card.

The cost of obtaining an NCCCO certification varies depending on which type of crane operator license you are applying for. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 to obtain an initial license from the NCCCO. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake any portion of the exam or if you require additional training courses prior to taking the exams.

7. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Technician Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Technician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes automotive technicians who have demonstrated excellence in their field. The program is designed to ensure that automotive technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to properly diagnose and repair vehicles.

To become an ASE Master Technician, applicants must pass eight tests related to their chosen specialty. These tests cover topics such as engine performance, electrical systems, brakes, suspension and steering, heating and air conditioning, engine repair, manual drive train and axles, automatic transmissions and transaxles, and engine performance. Additionally, applicants must also complete two years of hands-on work experience in their chosen specialty.

In order to apply for the ASE Master Technician Certification program, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of two years of work experience in their chosen specialty. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then pass all eight tests within a two-year period in order to receive certification.

The cost for the ASE Master Technician Certification program varies depending on the number of tests taken; however it typically ranges from $200-$400 per test.

8. International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) Well Control Accreditation Program

The International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) Well Control Accreditation Program is a certification program designed to ensure that drilling personnel have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively control a well. The program consists of two parts: an online assessment and a practical exam.

The online assessment is completed prior to taking the practical exam. It covers topics such as well control principles, safe operating practices, equipment operation, and emergency response procedures. This assessment can take anywhere from one to two hours to complete.

The practical exam is conducted at an IADC-approved facility and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to operate the equipment properly and respond appropriately in various well control scenarios. Candidates must pass both the online assessment and the practical exam in order to receive their accreditation. The practical exam typically takes four hours or more to complete.

The cost of the IADC Well Control Accreditation Program varies depending on the location of the training facility, but typically ranges from $300-$500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with travel expenses if you are attending a course outside of your local area.

Overall, obtaining IADC Well Control Accreditation can take anywhere from one day up to several weeks depending on where you are located and how quickly you can complete both parts of the program.

9. U.S. Green Building Council LEED Green Associate Credential

The U.S. Green Building Council LEED Green Associate Credential is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the principles of green building, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The credential is designed for professionals who are not directly involved in the design or construction of green buildings but who still need to understand the basics of green building and sustainability. The LEED Green Associate credential is valid for two years and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or passing a recertification exam.

To become a LEED Green Associate, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as sustainable site development, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, operations & maintenance, innovation in design & regional priority credits. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

The cost of becoming a LEED Green Associate varies depending on the individual's location and whether they choose to take the online or in-person version of the exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to become certified as a LEED Green Associate.

10. American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certification

The American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certification is a comprehensive program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to emergencies. This certification includes training in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED) usage. The program is designed to prepare individuals to recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing, and first aid emergencies.

The American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certification typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete. During this time, participants will learn how to perform basic first aid techniques such as treating wounds, controlling bleeding, and providing CPR. They will also learn how to use an AED in order to help save someone’s life in the event of a cardiac emergency.

To get certified in American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED, you can take a course either online or in person through an authorized provider. Online courses are self-paced and provide participants with access to interactive videos and quizzes that help them review the material covered during the course. In-person courses are taught by certified instructors who provide hands-on practice for participants.

The cost of the American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certification varies depending on the provider and type of course taken (online or in person). Generally speaking, online courses tend to be more affordable than in-person courses due to their self-paced nature. Prices for online courses typically range from $50-$100 USD while prices for in-person courses range from $75-$150 USD.

Do You Really Need a General Labor Certificate?

Whether or not you need a general labor certificate really depends on your career goals. If you are looking for a job in the construction industry, for example, it is likely that you will need to have a valid general labor certificate in order to be considered for available positions. On the other hand, if you are looking for work in the IT field or another professional field, then having a general labor certificate is likely not necessary.

A general labor certificate is generally offered by trade unions and other organizations as a way to certify individuals who have achieved certain standards of competence or skill within their chosen field. Depending on the type of job that you are looking for, having this certification can make a difference when it comes to being hired or not. It shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to achieve professional competency in your chosen career path.

In some cases, however, having a general labor certificate may be more trouble than it is worth. For instance, if you are looking for work in an industry where certification isn't required, then obtaining one could be seen as unnecessary by potential employers. Additionally, if you are already working in an industry where certification isn't required and don't plan on changing careers anytime soon, then getting certified may also be unnecessary.

Ultimately, whether or not you need to obtain a general labor certificate depends largely on your career goals and objectives. If certification is required within your desired field of work then it would certainly be beneficial to pursue one; however, if certification is not necessary for the position that you're seeking then it would probably be best to save your time and money and focus instead on more relevant skills and experiences related to the job at hand.

Related: General Labor Resume Examples

FAQs About General Labor Certifications

1. What is a General Labor Certification?

Answer: A General Labor Certification is a document that verifies an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to perform general labor duties. It typically covers topics such as safety, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail.

2. Who needs a General Labor Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, anyone who performs manual labor tasks can benefit from having a General Labor Certification. This includes construction workers, janitors, warehouse workers, landscapers and more.

3. How do I get a General Labor Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam in order to obtain your certification. Many employers offer on-the-job training programs or certifications that can help you prepare for the exam.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time required for certification depends on the specific type of certification you are seeking and the requirements associated with it. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on the scope of knowledge required for the certification.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a General Labor Certification?

Answer: Yes, some organizations may require fees for taking their exams or providing materials necessary for studying and preparing for the exams. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with completing any required coursework or obtaining necessary documents such as transcripts or letters of recommendation.