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Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Training and Certification FAQs
General EHS Training FAQs
What is Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Training and what workplace hazards does it cover?
EHS Training is all about keeping people safe, healthy, and in-the-know! Whether you’re dealing with asbestos, mold, lead paint, or just want to stay OSHA-compliant, our trainings helps you handle it all like a pro – with the knowledge and skills you need to do the job. Workplace hazards vary from job-to-job and industry-to-industry, so if you're not sure which EHS training you need, just give us a call so we can help.
Why is EHS Training important?
EHS Training helps you stay safe, know the skills, follow the rules, and protect yourself, your team, and the environment. Plus, if you’re doing regulated work in the asbestos, lead paint, mold or hazardous materials fields – its required.
Who is required to take Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) training?
If you work with hazardous materials, manage properties, supervise contractors, or just want to be a safety superstar, EHS Training is for you. This means environmental consultants, contractors, home improvement companies, restoration firms, property managers, school staff, maintenance crews, and anyone else who might run into environmental hazards. And if you work in Nassau County, Suffolk County or New York City - you may have local requirements as well depending on the type of work you do. Always check with your local authorities before jumping into a training class.
Are your environmental and safety training courses accredited?
Absolutely! Our courses are accredited and meet the training requirements of OSHA, EPA, NYSDOL, NYSDOH and NYCDEP depending on the type of training. (And depending on where you are located, our courses can even be accepted by other States through reciprocity!
Do you offer hybrid or online training courses?
We’ve got training courses and certification options for everyone! You can take courses in-person, online, or through a hybrid of both. Whether you love learning in your pajamas or prefer the classroom vibe, we’ve got you covered.
Do you offer weekend or evening training courses?
You bet we do! We hold courses after hours on weeknights and weekends at both our Plainview (Long Island) and Bayside (Queens) facilities (and even online!) so taking a training course can work with your schedule. Explore our full calendar of upcoming courses.
Where are your environmental training facilities located?
Our main training facility for in-person training is located in Nassau County at 208 Newtown Road in Plainview (Long Island); however, we also hold regularly scheduled classes at our Queens facility located at 214-29 42nd Avenue in Bayside. And don't forget - we also hold online training and hybrid training!
How do I find the location of my in-person training class with CNS?
Your course location will always be shown on the course page on our website and will always be included in your confirmation email and reminder emails. If you’re not sure – just give us a call! Our main training facility for in-person training is located in Nassau County at 208 Newtown Road in Plainview (Long Island)</u></a>; however, we also hold regularly scheduled classes at our Queens facility located at 214-29 42nd Avenue in Bayside. And don't forget - we also hold online training and hybrid training!
What do I bring to class?
At a minimum - your gorgeous self and your ID (like a Driver’s License, Permit or non-Driver ID).
For Refresher Courses, you will also need to give us proof of your prior training and your current license (“hard card”) so we can confirm your eligibility to take the course.
For any Asbestos or Mold course, you are required to have a NYSDMV ID#. If you don’t have one – no big deal. You’ll just need to go to the NYSDMV with acceptable proofs of your identity to get your photo taken and get an ID #. Go to our Student Resources page and look for the form: NYS DMV Request For Photo Image & Acceptable Proofs of ID.
For Asbestos Management Planner training, you’ll also need to give us your Asbestos Inspector training certificate dated less than one year from your Management Planner course.
For Lead Risk Assessor Initial training, you’ll need to give us proof that you’ve taken the pre-requisite Lead Inspector training.
How can I get a discount on your training courses?
Join our Loyalty Program! Signing up is completely free, and you get 150 points as soon as you become a member that you can use for 10% off your class. For every class you book, you get an additional 50 points and once you get 100 points you can redeem them for 10% off the lowest priced class in your cart! You can sign up at https://www.cnsenviro.com/loyalty-rewards.
Want more? Join our Referral Program too! Sign up to our free referral program at https://www.cnsenviro.com/refer-friends to get your unique referral link. Send to your friends and they’ll get 50 points, and you’ll get 10% off for each friend who books a class.
What about a group discount for training my team?
You bet! We offer volume-based deals and corporate rates for businesses, schools, and organizations training multiple people. Just reach out, and we’ll hook you up.
Do you issue official accredited certificates of completion after your training courses?
Of course! Complete any of our accredited EHS courses, and you’ll get a shiny certificate to show off your new skills. But remember – in most cases your training certificate doesn’t mean you are “licensed”! You still have to apply for your full certification with the EPA, NYSDOL and/or NYCDEP (or other state/local jurisdiction).
How do I apply for my full license after completing a training course?
Easy! The training course you completed will dictate how you apply for your license. And now – applying for your Asbestos, Lead or Mold license can be done completely online!
Our full instructions on how to apply for your license is located at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at the end of each section at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
What payment methods do you accept?
We make it easy — you can pay with credit cards, debit cards, checks, and corporate purchase orders for larger groups (and of course we accept cash).
Can I pay in person on the day of my class, or do I need to book online?
For in-person classes held in Plainview (Nassau County/Long Island) you can – however, our courses are first come first serve, so students who book on our website are guaranteed a spot in our course. If a class is fully sold out (or if a class is postponed due to low enrollment) you may arrive and not be able to join. We always recommend booking through our website so your spot is guaranteed.
What is the refund and cancellation policy for your training courses?
The short version: if you contact us to cancel your course at least 5 business days before the course start date – you get a full refund. For the full details, policies and exceptions, read our full Refund Policy at https://www.cnsenviro.com/training-course-policies.
What happens if something comes up the morning of my class and I can’t make it?
We get it (we’re in the industry). If something comes up last minute and you can’t make your class – please just give us a call. Chances are we have plenty of other class dates we can get you into.
What are the qualifications and credentials of your EHS training instructors?
Each of our instructors are environmental aficionados, and have real life, practical and logical experience in the areas they teach; and hold certifications to prove it. All of our instructions have a minimum of 5 years of hands-on real experience, and are approved or authorized to train students by OSHA, EPA, NYSDOH or NYSDOL. While they all have their own style, they each deliver the same outcome – you leaving class feeling confident to do your job and applying your skills in the field, and feeling that sense of accomplishment you so rightfully deserve.
Asbestos Training FAQs
What is Asbestos and why is certified safety training required in New York?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that’s tough, fireproof, and super useful — except for the fact that it can seriously mess with your health. It was a go-to material in construction until we learned the hard way that inhaling asbestos fibers is dangerous.
What Asbestos Training courses do you offer?
We’ve got the whole lineup:
How do I know which Asbestos Training course I need?
If you’ll be removing or handling asbestos materials directly, you need Asbestos Handler Training.
If you’ll be supervising a team that handles/abates asbestos, you need Asbestos Supervisor Training
If you’re going to be monitoring asbestos abatement work, you need Asbestos Project Monitor Training
If you’re collecting air samples during or after asbestos abatement, you need Asbestos Air Sampling Technician Training
If you’re inspecting buildings for asbestos, you need Asbestos Inspector Training
If you’re designing asbestos abatement plans, you need Asbestos Project Designer Training
If you work in buildings with asbestos but don’t disturb it, you need Asbestos Operations & Maintenance Training
If you just need general knowledge about asbestos without handling it, you need Asbestos Awareness Training.
If you’ll be planning and managing asbestos activities, you need Asbestos Management Planner Training
If you’ll be conducting minor, non-abatement work (like HVAC, electrical, or plumbing) in areas with asbestos, you need Asbestos Allied Trades Training
What’s the difference between an initial Asbestos Project Monitor and an Asbestos Air Sampling Technician course?
An Asbestos Project Monitor oversees asbestos abatement projects, ensuring that work is done safely and correctly, while an Asbestos Air Sampling Technician is responsible for collecting and analyzing air samples to verify safe asbestos levels. If you’re on an asbestos abatement job as a Project Monitor, you can only collect air samples if you also hold an Air Sampling Technician certification. The good news? If you complete Project Monitor training, you don’t need to separately take the Air Sampling Technician training - you just need to make sure you check off both licenses on your NYSDOL application.
Can I take multiple initial Asbestos training courses to hold different NYS asbestos certifications?
Absolutely! Many professionals take multiple Asbestos Courses depending on what they want to do. For example, you can become an Asbestos Inspector, Asbestos Project Monitor & Air Sampling Technician, Asbestos Management Planner, and Asbestos Project Designer.
Are your Asbestos initial and refresher courses NYS approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)?
Yep! Our courses are fully approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) who govern all things asbestos training related.
Do I need to take an annual Asbestos Refresher course to renew my New York State asbestos certification?
You sure do — every year you need to take a Refresher Course and submit your renewal application. Training is valid for one year regardless of the expiration date on your asbestos “hard card”. Once your training expires, you enter a one-year grace period and cannot perform any asbestos work until you take your Refresher Course and get your new “hard card”. Once your grace period expires (exactly two years from your last training date), you are no longer eligible for refresher training and must repeat an Initial Course. But don’t worry, we’ve got Refresher Courses every month to keep you compliant.
How far in advance can I take my NYSDOL Asbestos Refresher course before my certificate expires?
This answer will shock you but it’s the one we received from the NYSDOL: you can take your Asbestos Refresher up to 11 MONTHS before your certification expires. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS! And here’s why:
We all know that Asbestos Refresher training must be taken every year in order to maintain and renew your license. The NYS Department of Labor (NYSDOL) issues your license based on your Date of Birth and only considers your training date when it comes to issuing your license for the first time (so they can figure out if it will expire in the same year or the following year). The NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) couldn’t care less about your Date of Birth and only looks at your training date. So from the NYSDOH’s eyes, if you took your refresher training a literal month after you took your last training, the clock resets and you now have to take your refresher training around the same time every year.
THIS IS WHAT WE RECOMMEND: Take your refresher training 30-90 days before your Asbestos Certification expires. This gives you plenty of time take the course, submit your application and get your new “hard card” in the mail before your current one expires.
And for those of you who have a big disparity between your training month and your certification expiration month (ex. Trained in May 2025 and your certification expires in September 2026) – start inching your refresher training closer to your certification expiration date to make your life easy. If you go over the 1.5-year mark between training classes, you may be required to take 2 Refresher classes. And don’t get anywhere close to your 2-year mark between training. Because you’ll have to retake the Initial class as soon as you go over the 2-year mark, even by 1 day.
Can I take your NY Asbestos Training certification course if I live in another state like NJ, CT, or PA?
Yes! Our Asbestos Training is accepted in many other states through reciprocity, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. ALWAYS check with your specific state before booking your course with us, and feel free to ask them to contact us directly so we can make sure our class meets your State requirements!
Do I have to take an exam to pass your NYSDOH-compliant Asbestos training courses?
Yes, but our exams are not built to trick you. Our exams are compliant with NYSDOH regulations and built to reinforce what you learned throughout the class so you can hit the ground running. And if you take the exam and your first shot wasn’t your best – it’s ok. You get another two shots at it.
I took Asbestos training in another state - can I get NYSDOH reciprocity for a New York Asbestos license?
In almost all cases – yes. The very first thing you need to do is complete the NYS Asbestos Safety Training Equivalency/Reciprocity Application (DOH-4353) and submit it to the NYSDOH with all supporting documentation. The NYSDOH will review your application and make a determination if your out-of-state training is substantially equivalent to that required in NYS and send you a letter. If approved, out-of-state applicants will then need to complete a NYS Asbestos Refresher course. After the training is completed, we will send you the “DOH-2832 Student Copy” which you will in turn submit to the NYSDOH with the letter they issued you, and then THEY will mail you a “DOH-2832 Dept. of Labor Copy” which you will use to apply for your NYS license.
Where is your asbestos training school located?
Our main training facility for in-person asbestos training is located at 208 Newtown Road in Plainview (Nassau County, Long Island); and we also hold regularly scheduled asbestos classes at our Queens facility located at 214-29 42nd Avenue in Bayside. We also hold asbestos refresher courses entirely online! None of these work for you? Give us a call to discuss holding asbestos training at your facility.
I completed my initial Asbestos certification course - how do I apply for my official NYS Asbestos license?
First, congratulations! Bask in the joy and accomplishment. Second, apply for your NYS license ASAP. Your paperwork is being sent to you via US Mail to the mailing address you provided on your registration form. If you didn’t do so in class – don’t forget to sign the Signature field on your DOH-2832 (Dept of Labor copy) before you submit you submit it with your application! Applications can be submitted via US Mail or electronically using the NYS’s MPWR System at https://dol.ny.gov/mpwr. If you don’t get an envelope from us within 5-days after your course – please call, email or text us right away.
Our full instructions on how to apply for your license is located at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions. If you just completed your Initial Course, you’re permitted to start working right away - but for no longer than 45-days after your course completion date (roughly 6 weeks so you can allow for your asbestos license (“hard card”) to come in the mail (this 45-day rule does not apply to Refresher Courses).
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
Can I start working in New York right away with the initial Asbestos training course DOH-2832 certificate?
If you just completed your Initial Course, you’re permitted to start working right away with your DOH-2832 (Student Copy)- but for no longer than 45-days after your course completion date. This is intended to allow you enough time to submit your NYSDOL license application and get your asbestos license (“hard card”) to come in the mail. If it’s been 4 weeks since you submitted your license application, contact the NYSDOL at (518) 457-2735 to check your application status, or log into the MPWR system using the same credentials you used to apply online and you can see the status there.
If you just completed your Refresher Course – you may only continue to work if your current asbestos “hard card” is not expired. If it is expired, you can not perform any asbestos work until your new asbestos “hard card” comes in the mail. (The 45-day rule for your DOH-2832 does not apply to Refresher Courses).
Who do I contact at the NYSDOL if I haven't received my New York Asbestos license after submitting my application?
Don’t panic. Just call the NYSDOL (we promise it’s not as painful as you think). If it’s been 4 weeks since you submitted your license application via US Mail – call them at (518) 457-2735 and ask them for the status of your license. If you submitted your application online through the MPWR system, login using the same credentials you used to apply and you can see the status there.
BUT REMEMBER: If you took an Initial Class, your “DOH-2832” form is only good for 45-days from your course completion date – so don’t sleep on calling the NYSDOL at the 4-week mark because you are not allowed to work after 45 days without your license “hard card”. And if you took a Refresher Class and your current license has expired – you can not work on any asbestos project until you get your new license “hard card”.
I let my NYS Asbestos license expire - can I still work, or do I need to retake the initial or refresher training?
Let’s navigate this one. First and foremost - you cannot work on any asbestos project until you get your new license. There are no exceptions here (unless you take an Initial and get a new DOH-2832 form which lets you work for 45 days while awaiting your license)
So, in most cases if your license expired a very short while ago, you can simply take your Asbestos Refresher, submit your renewal application and wait for your new “hard card” to come in the mail.
Now for the tricker scenario. The NYSDOL issues your Asbestos license based on your Birth Date, but the NYSDOH looks only at your Training Date. With that said, in order to put you on the right path, you’re going to need to know when you completed your last training. If the last training course you took was less than 2 years ago, you can still take a Refresher to renew your license (and in some cases the NYSDOL may require you to take 2 Refreshers). If the last training course you took was more than 2 years ago – you need to take the Initial Course again.
When is your next _________ course?
All of the courses we offer, along with our available dates, will always be on our website at cnsenviro.com. If you don’t see what you’re looking for – reach out! You can call, text or email us and we’ll find something that works for you.
I need my training by tomorrow. Do you have anything sooner than what I see on your website?
If you don’t see a date that works for you on our website – give us a call. And if you have a group of 5 or more, we can schedule a class for you with as little as 4 days’ notice.
Mold Certification FAQs
Where is your Mold training school located?
Our main training facility for in-person mold training is located at 208 Newtown Road in Plainview (Nassau County, Long Island); and we also hold regularly scheduled mold classes at our Queens facility located at 214-29 42nd Avenue in Bayside. We also hold mold refresher courses entirely online! None of these work for you? Give us a call to discuss holding mold training at your facility.
What is Mold and why is certified NYS mold training legally required?
Mold is that sneaky fungus that loves damp, dark spaces. It’s not just gross — it can also mess with your health and damage your property if left unchecked.
What Mold Training courses do you offer?
We offer the following Mold Training Courses:
Is NYS Mold Training legally required to perform mold assessment or remediation in New York State?
Absolutely. If you’re assessing, remediating, or supervising mold work in New York, you need to complete NYSDOL-approved Mold Training.
Can I take NYS Mold Refresher or Mold Awareness training courses online?
We’ve got Mold Awareness and Mold Refreshers online, but state-approved Assessor, Worker, and Contractor/Supervisors courses are in-person only (because you need to complete hands-on activities!).
Do I have to take a test to pass your NYSDOL-compliant Mold Assessor, Mold Contractor or Mold Worker training courses?
Yes (except for Refreshers), but our exams are not built to trick you. Our exams are compliant with NYSDOL regulations and built to reinforce what you learned throughout the class so you can hit the ground running. And if you take the exam and your first shot wasn’t your best – it’s ok. You get another two shots at it.
I completed my initial Mold training course - how do I submit my application for a NYS Mold license?
First, congratulations! Bask in the joy and accomplishment. Second, apply for your NYS license ASAP. We will EMAIL your Certificate of Completion, Application Forms and Instructions to the email address you provided on your registration form. If you don’t see an email from us within 5-days after your course – please call, email or text us right away.
Our full instructions on how to apply for your license is located at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions. You can not start working until you receive your license!
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at the end of each section at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
Can I start working right away in NYS once I receive my Mold Assessor, Mold Contractor or Mold Worker course certificate?
No. Once you complete your class, you must immediately submit your NYSDOL license application so you can get your official mold license “hard card”. You are not permitted to perform any mold work until you have a valid and unexpired mold license “hard card”.
Do I need to take a Mold Refresher course every 2 years to renew my New York State mold certification?
You sure do — every other year (aka every 2 years). But don’t worry, we’ve got refresher courses every month to keep you compliant.
How far in advance can I take a NYS Mold Refresher training course before my license expires?
You can take your Mold Refresher up to one-year before your mold license expires! And we’ve got Refresher Courses every month so you can choose what fits your schedule.
Who do I call at the NYSDOL if I haven't received my official New York Mold license after applying?
Don’t panic. Just call the NYSDOL (we promise it’s not as painful as you think). If it’s been 4 weeks since you submitted your license application via US Mail – call them at (518) 457-2735 and ask them for the status of your license. If you submitted your application online through the MPWR system, login using the same credentials you used to apply and you can see the status there.
BUT REMEMBER: You can not work on any mold project until you get your license “hard card”. No exceptions.
I let my NYS Mold license expire - can I still work, or do I need to retake the Mold Initial course?
First and foremost - you cannot work on any mold project until you get your new license. No exceptions.
Now, if your license has expired for 1 year or less – just take a Mold Refresher and submit your license renewal application. Keep in mind that your license will only be renewed from its original expiration date (not the date you submitted your renewal application).
If your license has expired for more than 1 year and you never took a Mold Refresher – you need to take the Initial course again.
When is your next _________ course?
All of the courses we offer, along with our available dates, will always be on our website at cnsenviro.com. If you don’t see what you’re looking for – reach out! You can call, text or email us and we’ll find something that works for you.
I need my training by tomorrow. Do you have anything sooner than what I see on your website?
If you don’t see a date that works for you on our website – give us a call. And if you have a group of 5 or more, we can schedule a class for you with as little as 4 days’ notice.
EPA Lead Paint Certification FAQs
Where is your Lead Paint training school located?
Our main training facility for in-person Lead training is located at 208 Newtown Road in Plainview (Nassau County, Long Island); and we also hold regularly scheduled Lead classes at our Queens facility located at 214-29 42nd Avenue in Bayside. We also hold most Lead refresher courses online! None of these work for you? Give us a call to discuss holding Lead training at your facility.
What’s the deal with Lead Paint?
Lead Paint is an old-school paint with a toxic twist. It was super popular before 1978, but now we know it’s a major health hazard, especially for kids.
What Lead Paint Training courses do you offer?
We’ve got you covered with:
Lead Renovator, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Certification
Lead Inspector Training
Lead Risk Assessor Training
Lead Abatement Worker Training
Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
Lead Awareness Training
Is EPA Lead Paint training required by federal law, or do states administer their own certification?
Yes! If you’re dealing with lead-based paint, you need training. Some states/territories are EPA-administered (like Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, South Carolina, South Dakota, Wyoming, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and some states have their own state-level training requirements.
If you’re not sure which training you need or if your state is EPA-administered or State-administered, check out https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-abatement-and-evaluation-program-overview.
What’s the difference between the EPA Lead RRP Renovator certification and the Lead Supervisor certification course?
Lead RRP Certification applies to individuals who perform Renovation, Repair, and Painting work in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities and disturb Lead Paint as a consequence of the activity (and is also required training for Home Improvement Contractors).
Lead Supervisor certification focuses on supervising abatement projects where lead is being Removed, Abated or Managed, and is designed to address existing Lead Paint Hazards.
The EPA provides a really great breakdown of the differences here: https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-abatement-versus-lead-rrp
Can I take Lead Paint Training online?
Our EPA Refresher courses are all available online. But for the other lead courses (where you get to practice hands-on), you’ll need to attend in person.
Do I need to renew my Lead Paint certification?
Yup! For RRP Renovators, you’ll need to renew every 5 years and take a Lead RRP Refresher course. For all other Lead certifications (Inspector, Risk Assessor, Supervisor, Worker), you’ll need to renew every years and take a Refresher in the certification you hold. We always recommend taking your Refresher 6 months before your certification expires – and you can take one with us online. We always have a steady lineup for you.
How far in advance can I take my EPA Lead Refresher training course before my certificate expires?
This is going to be a hard 18 months (1.5 years) in our perspective (and the EPA’s perspective too). Time and time again we hear from new students that their Lead Refresher got cancelled and now they only have a few days left before their license expires.
Our advice – don’t wait. Start looking for your refresher class about 18 months before your license expires (and at the absolute latest 6 months before expiration) – so you have plenty of time. And the bonus – the EPA doesn’t shorten your license span just because you were diligent. The EPA will renew your Lead license based on your current expiration date.
Remember: You must complete your refresher course, submit your renewal application on CDX and receive your new certificate from the EPA before your current certification expires! Need instructions on how to submit your application? Check our instruction page at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
I hold multiple Lead paint certifications - do I need a separate Lead Refresher course for each license?
Each certification is separate from each other and requires a separate license and separate refresher course. You must take your Refresher for each certification you hold (we recommend 6-18 months prior to expiration) and submit your applications online using EPA’s CDX platform. Need instructions on how to submit your application? Check our instruction page at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
I completed my EPA Lead Certification course - how long until I get my certificate and how do I apply for a license?
First, congratulations! Bask in the joy and accomplishment. We will EMAIL your Certificate of Completion and Instructions to the email address you provided on your registration form. If you don’t see an email from us within 5-days after your course – please call, email or text us right away.
For RRP Renovator Courses – you do not need to submit an application for an individual license. The Certificate we give you serves as your full license. But you do need to submit an application (or renew one) for your company. Follow the instructions provided at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
For all other Lead Courses - the Certificate we provide to you is called an “Interim Certificate” which is only valid for 180 days from your course completion date. While you can use this to start performing work in your discipline right away – we strongly urge you to apply for your full EPA licensure right away (like, within 30 days). This goes for both Initial and Refresher Courses. The EPA has a zero (0) grace period for Lead certifications - which means if you let your EPA certification expire even for one day – you need to retake the Initial Course and reapply for a new license. Our full instructions on how to apply for your license is located at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
What are USEPA Interim Lead Certificates and why do they expire after 180 days?
With exception to the RRP Renovator certification, the USEPA mandates that training providers can only issue Interim Certificates valid for 180 days, which will allow you to apply for your full USEPA certification and pass the EPA-level exam. Only the USEPA can issue your full certification, and only after you apply and pass the EPA-level exam. By making these Interim Certificates valid for 180 days, this will give you plenty of time to apply for your license, study and take your EPA-level exam. When your Interim Certificate expires, you can not continue to work until you complete the Initial Course again.
Can I start working right away with the Lead Certificate you gave me?
For RRP Courses: Yes. Just make sure the company you work for is an RRP Certified Firm. See https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions for more info.
For all other Lead Courses: Yes. The Certificate we provide to you is called an “Interim Certificate” which is valid for 180 days from your course completion date. While you can use this to start performing work in your discipline right away – we strongly urge you to apply for your full EPA licensure ASAP. See https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions for more info.
Do I have to take an exam to pass your EPA-compliant Lead training courses?
Yes, but our exams are not built to trick you. Our exams are compliant with EPA regulations and built to reinforce what you learned throughout the class so you can hit the ground running. And if you take the exam and your first shot wasn’t your best – it’s ok. You get another two shots at it.
If you’re taking an Initial Lead Inspector, Risk Assessor or Supervisor Class and need to obtain your full EPA license afterwards, you are required to take another EPA-level exam after you submit your application. (Lead Workers do not need to take an EPA-level exam, they just need to submit their application and pay the fees)
Are EPA-level Lead Certification exams required for Initial Inspector, Risk Assessor or Supervisor training?
Applicants for their initial full EPA certification as an Inspector, Risk Assessor or Supervisor are required to take an EPA-level exam - which can be taken online or in-person. Within 2 days of submitting your application, you will receive an email with an exam letter that provides information about scheduling, updating your appointment, what you'll need to provide at the time of the exam, and (if needed) the procedure for retakes. If you've misplaced your exam letter, you can always log into your CDX inbox, to find it.
No third party exam is required for recertification, even if you choose to take another initial training course rather than a refresher training course.
Here are some useful links from the EPA:
EPA Third Party Exam Contact Information and Questions: https://www.epa.gov/lead/forms/epa-third-party-exam-contact-information-and-questions
EPA Lead-based Paint Individual Certification: https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-abatement-and-evaluation-program-individual-certification
Do I need an EPA-level Initial Lead class for federal certification if I already hold an EPA-authorized state-level lead certification?
If you are already certified by a State Level program in a particular discipline (that is EPA Authorized), and you want to obtain Federal certification, you will need to submit your EPA application online, and submit the following:
PDF copy of your currently valid certificate (license/permit) from the authorized state or tribe;
Passport photograph (JPG format preferred); and
Credit card, debit card, or information needed to complete an ACH payment of the applicable fee.
You do not need to take an EPA-accredited initial training course or the third-party exam.
Our full instructions on how to apply for your license is located at https://www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
What happens if I miss the EPA 180-day grace period to submit my Lead Certification application?
The EPA has a zero (0) grace period for Lead certifications – and this applies to both Interim Certificates and Full Certification. If your Interim Certificate expires any less than 30 days from now, we do not recommend submitting your EPA application and paying the fees because you still need to take and pass your EPA-level exam.
Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an exam letter that provides details about scheduling your exam – and your exam must be scheduled at least 2-days prior to the day you want to take it. You must allow the EPA time to first acknowledge your application, send you confirmation letters, schedule and pass your exam, and allow time for the EPA to receive your passing exam results and issue your Certificate. The chances of this all happening in less than 30 days are slim.
We instead recommend completing your Initial Course again (which will get you another Interim Certificate good for 180 days so you can keep working), but this time apply for your full EPA certification right away (within 30 days). Both you and the EPA need time to process your application, schedule an exam date and successfully pass the exam – and if you don’t give yourself (or the EPA) enough time to do this, you’ll wind up spending more money than you need to.
I let my EPA Lead certification expire - When does my grace period end and do I have to retake the initial Lead course?
The EPA has a zero (0) grace period for Lead certifications – which means if you let your EPA certification expire even for a day – you need to retake the Initial Course and reapply for a new license.
How can I check my application status with the EPA if I haven't received my Lead paint license yet?
Breathe. First – check your email inbox and junk/spam folders for any emails from lead.paint@epa.gov. All certification approvals are always sent to the email address you provided on your online application. They are also sent to the CDX platform that you used to submit your application. Login to CDX using the credentials you submitted your application with and you can check your CDX Inbox for your certificate as well.
If all else fails, just call the EPA’s CDX Help Line at 888-890-1995 so they can help you.
When is your next _________ course?
All of the courses we offer, along with our available dates, will always be on our website at cnsenviro.com. If you don’t see what you’re looking for – reach out! You can call, text or email us and we’ll find something that works for you.
I need my training by tomorrow. Do you have anything sooner than what I see on your website?
If you don’t see a date that works for you on our website – give us a call. And if you have a group of 5 or more, we can schedule a class for you with as little as 4 days’ notice.
OSHA Training FAQs
What is OSHA?
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is basically the safety superhero of the workplace. They set and enforce the rules that keep workers safe.
What OSHA training courses do you offer?
We offer the following OSHA training courses:
OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Outreach
OSHA Awareness Courses such as Asbestos, Mold, Lead, PCBs, Bloodborne Pathogens, Silica etc.
And so much more. You can find all of our OSHA classes at www.cnsenviro.com/osha-certifications.
Do I need OSHA training?
If you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or any high-risk industry, then there is a very high likelihood you need OSHA Training.
What OSHA training do I need?
The training you need is highly contingent on the work you do, but if you work on practically any construction site in New York – you probably need the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Industry Outreach at a minimum. If you’re not sure which class you need to take – give us a call or shoot us an email so we can help you!
After the course, do I need to apply for a license?
In short – no. Depending on which course you took, either the certificate we give you is what you need; or we (the course provider) will submit your training certificate so you can get your license (“OSHA card”) in the mail.
It’s been a while, and I still haven’t gotten my OSHA card in the mail.
If it’s been 4 weeks – call us. We submit your training verification to OSHA shortly after you complete the class, and once we received your OSHA card from them we mail it out right away to the address provided on your registration form.
I let my OSHA certification expire. What now?
Most OSHA training is valid for one year before refresher training is needed; however, this can be variable based on the type of work you perform. For HAZWOPER training, it is OSHA’s intent that workers complete their refresher training within 1 year of their last training; however, if the worker doesn’t receive their refresher training on the “1 year” mark, it is acceptable for them to take the next available class. That said, if a person has an extended period of lapsed training, their employer should determine that person’s individual knowledge and retention of information to determine if they can complete a refresher course or should retake the initial course. To quote OSHA “For example, a two-year absence from work at a TSD facility may not necessitate repetition of initial course training, in many cases. Completion of the 8 hours of refresher training by itself could be sufficient. An extended absence from the industry, however, would indicate a need for extensive retraining. In such cases the employer may wish to consider repeating the initial training course”. The ultimate goal of OSHA is to ensure that employees are trained sufficiently to allow them to perform their expected job duties in a safe and healthful manner.
OSHA Outreach training cards, like OSHA 10 and 30, do not have a mandatory expiration date; HOWEVER, some local jurisdictions have their own requirements. For example, NYC Construction Workers must renew their OSHA training every 5 years as part of the Site Safety Training (SST) requirements and in Connecticut, workers on certain public works project must also renew their training every 5 years. We always recommend double-checking your State and Local regulations to make sure you remain in compliance.
I need OSHA 10 or 30 safety training by tomorrow. Can you host an urgent class for my crew on Long Island?
In short – if we have availability and you have at least 3 people, then there’s a good chance we can! Most OSHA-Authorized Trainers are required to give their ATO (the training organization that authorized them) at least 24 hours’ notice before holding an in-person class; and at least seven (7) days’ notice to hold an online class.
Also keep in mind that no provider (including us) can complete a valid OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 course in a single day. OSHA caps Outreach training at 7.5 contact hours per day for both classroom and online delivery, which means an OSHA 10-Hour course takes a minimum of 2 days and an OSHA 30-Hour course takes a minimum of 4 days. This is an OSHA rule, not a scheduling choice, and it applies no matter who teaches the class.
If your crew needs to get started as soon as possible – the best way to set this up is to give us a call at (833) 782-TRAIN. We run in-person classes at our Plainview (Nassau County) and Bayside (Queens) facilities and can also bring training directly to your job site.
What OSHA training course (OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour) do I need for a New York construction site?
It depends on your role, the site location, and whether the project is public or private work.
OSHA 10-Hour is the baseline for entry-level construction workers. New York State Labor Law 220-h requires it for every laborer, worker, and mechanic on a public work contract of $250,000 or more, completed before work begins on the site.
OSHA 30-Hour is intended for supervisors and workers with safety responsibilities. On most New York City construction and demolition sites with a Site Safety Plan (any site with a designated Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager), NYC Local Law 196 requires a 40-hour Site Safety Training (SST) Worker card for workers and a 62-hour SST Supervisor card for supervisors.
OSHA 30 (or the equivalent 40-Hour Site Safety course) counts toward the worker requirement. OSHA 10 alone does not satisfy Local Law 196 on those sites, though a new entrant can start work with an OSHA 10 card and has six months to complete the rest.
Outside NYC and outside public contracts over $250,000, the requirement is usually set by your employer or general contractor rather than by statute.
How long does it take to receive my official OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 wallet card after completing training?
The official plastic OSHA wallet card is mailed separately, directly to you, typically within about two weeks of course completion. Under OSHA's own rules, training providers are required to issue the card within 90 days; so if you haven't received yours after 90 days, contact us immediately.
What OSHA 10-Hour and OSHA 30-Hour training courses do you offer in Nassau County, Queens, and Long Island?
We offer both the OSHA 10-Hour and OSHA 30-Hour Construction Industry Outreach courses in-person on Long Island and in Queens, from our facilities in Plainview (Nassau County) and Bayside (Queens), or on-site at your job location. We also offer both courses online!
How often do I need OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour refresher training for construction or general industry?
Federally, OSHA 10 and 30-Hour cards never expire, and there is no OSHA-mandated refresher. Whether you need one depends on where you work:
New York State public work (Labor Law 220-h): no renewal required by the state, though your employer or contractor can still require one.
New York City: OSHA cards used toward NYC Site Safety Training (SST) are on a 5-year renewal cycle. Workers and supervisors on Local Law 196 sites must renew their SST card every 5 years to keep working on those sites. As of Local Law 10 of 2026, NYC allows a one-year grace period to renew an expired SST card, but you cannot work on-site with an expired card during that grace period.
General industry, outside NYC or public work: renewal frequency is set by your employer or job site policy, commonly every 3 to 5 years, but this is not an OSHA requirement.
Why are OSHA workplace safety training standards enforced in New York?
OSHA was created under the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to reduce on-the-job injuries, illnesses, and deaths by setting minimum safety standards employers must meet nationwide.
New York adds its own layer on top of that federal baseline. State Labor Law 220-h requires documented OSHA 10 training on public construction contracts before work begins. New York City passed Local Law 196 in 2017 after a review found that every fatal construction accident in the state that year involved an associated OSHA violation, and the law requires a verifiable, trackable safety credential (the SST card) for anyone working on a supervised construction site, rather than relying on an employer's word that training happened.
After passing an OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training course, do I need to apply for a New York State license?
No. The OSHA 10-Hour and OSHA 30-Hour Outreach cards are training completion credentials issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, not a professional certification or license. There is no New York State licensing application tied to them – however, two related points worth knowing:
If you work on an NYC construction site covered by Local Law 196, you (or your employer) still need to register your completed training and obtain a separate NYC Site Safety Training (SST) card through the DOB's Training Connect system. That's an administrative card, not a state license.
OSHA 10/30 does not replace any trade-specific New York State license or certification you may separately need, for example asbestos handling, lead-based paint activities, mold remediation or electrical work.
When is your next _________ course?
All of the courses we offer, along with our available dates, will always be on our website at cnsenviro.com. If you don’t see what you’re looking for – reach out! You can call, text or email us and we’ll find something that works for you.
I need my training by tomorrow. Do you have anything sooner than what I see on your website?
If you don’t see a date that works for you on our website – give us a call. And if you have a group of 5 or more, we can schedule a class for you with as little as 4 days’ notice.
Custom Training FAQs
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