OSHA consultation cooperation agreement to fund consultation workplace and health services to small employees with operation

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) awarded the Arkansas Department of Labor a $1.137 million Block Grant, 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 occupational safety and health consultation services to small and medium-sized employers throughout Arkansas with hazardous operations. The consultation program provides on-site workplace assessments to identify hazards, delivers compliance advice aligned with OSHA standards, and assists employers in establishing and improving occupational safety and health programs. These consultation services operate independently from OSHA enforcement activities and do not result in citations or penalties.

The Arkansas Department of Labor, as the designated state agency administrator, is responsible for program implementation and service delivery across the state. The Consultation Agreements program operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories, with priority extended to smaller employers in high-hazard industries. Grantees are required to contribute a minimum 10 percent matching share of non-federal funds to support program operations. Funding is distributed through the Department of Health and Human Services Payment Management System, and the department must retain program records for three years following grant closeout or final audit, whichever occurs later.