OSHA consultation cooperative agreement funds consultative workplace safety and health services tosmaller employers with more hazardous operations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) awarded the Maine Department of Labor a Block Grant of $808,000 under the Consultation Agreements program (CFDA 17.504), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This grant funds the delivery of no-cost, confidential on-site occupational safety and health consultation services to small and medium-sized employers in Maine with hazardous operations. The Maine Department of Labor, in collaboration with subrecipient Baxter Academy for Technology & Science, will provide workplace hazard identification, OSHA standards compliance guidance, and assistance in establishing and improving employer safety and health programs. These consultation services operate separately from OSHA enforcement activities and do not result in citations or penalties.

The program prioritizes service delivery to smaller employers engaged in high-hazard operations across Maine. Consultation activities include on-site assessments, technical assistance, and safety program development support designed to help employers create safer working environments. As a state-designated agency, the Maine Department of Labor is required to provide matching funds of at least 10 percent to complement the federal award and must maintain records for three years following grant closeout or final audit.