The training will review OSHA trenching and excavation standards, industry best practices, and resources for additional trenching and excavation safety assistance

The Construction Education Foundation of Colorado received a $1.9 million Block Grant award from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under the Occupational Safety and Health Susan Harwood Training Grants program (CFDA 17.502), effective September 30, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The award funds the development and delivery of instructor-led occupational safety and health training programs focused on OSHA trenching and excavation standards, industry best practices, and resources for additional safety assistance. The training is designed to serve disadvantaged, underserved, low-income, and at-risk worker populations, helping them recognize, avoid, and abate workplace hazards in high-hazard industries.

The funded activities align with OSHA's strategic priorities and safety emphasis programs by providing comprehensive safety education to workers and employers who face barriers to accessing occupational safety and health training. The program emphasizes helping target populations—including temporary workers, minority workers, workers with limited English proficiency, and employees in small businesses—understand workplace rights and employer responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Grant recipients are required to maintain records for three years following grant closeout and participate in data collection and training impact evaluations to demonstrate program effectiveness and worker safety outcomes.