OSHA consultation cooperative agreement to fund constructive workplace safety and health services to smaller employers with high hazardous operations

Bismarck State College received a $585,000 Block Grant award from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under CFDA 17.504, the Consultation Agreements program, effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The college delivers no-cost, confidential on-site occupational safety and health consultation services to small and medium-sized employers with hazardous operations in North Dakota. Consultation services identify workplace hazards, provide guidance on OSHA standards compliance, and assist employers in establishing and improving their safety and health programs. These services operate independently from OSHA enforcement activities and do not result in citations or penalties.

As a designated university administrator for North Dakota's consultation program, Bismarck State College provides comprehensive safety expertise to priority populations of smaller employers engaged in high-hazard operations throughout the state. The college has maintained continuous administration of this program since at least 2021 through renewable cooperative agreements and is required to contribute matching funds of at least 10 percent to the federal award. The consultation program represents a critical component of the college's broader federal workforce development and occupational safety portfolio.