OSHA consultation cooperative agreement to fund workplace safety and health consultation services for employers with high hazard operations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) awarded the Vermont Department of Labor a Block Grant of $780,000 effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, under the Consultation Agreements program (CFDA 17.504). This award funds the delivery of no-cost, confidential on-site workplace safety and health consultation services targeting small and medium-sized employers with high-hazard operations throughout Vermont. Consultation services operate independently from OSHA enforcement activities and do not result in citations or penalties; instead, consultants work directly with employers to identify workplace hazards, provide guidance on Occupational Safety and Health standards compliance, and assist in developing or enhancing organizational safety and health programs.

As the designated state administrator for Vermont's consultation program, the Vermont Department of Labor will leverage these federal funds in conjunction with required state matching contributions to deliver comprehensive occupational safety and health services across the state. The program prioritizes outreach to smaller employers engaged in hazardous operations, reflecting OSHA's broader strategic focus on supporting high-risk small business segments. Grant funds will be managed through the Department of Health and Human Services Payment Management System, with the Vermont Department of Labor required to maintain detailed records for three years following grant closeout or final audit, whichever occurs later.