EM385-1-1 Training Requirements Overview
EM 385-1-1 training overview
Start With the Requirements for Your Role and Project
If you are preparing to work on a USACE, DoD, or other project that adopts EM 385-1-1, relevant training can form an important part of compliance. This guide explains the common training options, the roles they may support, and the checks to make before enrolling.
Course content overview
What EM 385 Training Covers
EM 385 training is designed to build practical awareness of the safety requirements, workplace hazards, and control measures relevant to USACE and related construction work. The exact content depends on the course length: the 40-hour course covers the full course scope, while shorter courses focus on the topics relevant to their intended training pathway.
Safety Standards and Responsibilities
- The purpose of OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and associated resources.
- Worker and employer rights and responsibilities.
- Safety inspections, priorities, and general workplace standards.
- The relationship between EM 385-1-1 and OSHA construction requirements.
Hazard Recognition and Control
- Recognizing common industry hazards and selecting appropriate controls.
- Falls, trips, slips, and risks associated with different work surfaces.
- Chemical and electrical hazard awareness.
- Personal protective equipment, including its purpose and limitations.
Worksite Safety Systems
- Critical elements of health and safety plans.
- Fire-prevention programs and emergency planning.
- Flammable and combustible liquids and gases.
- Practical steps for safer daily work activities.
Higher-Risk Work Activities
- How worksite conditions affect safe planning and execution.
- Hazard-specific requirements that may apply to the task.
- Confined-space safety and related controls.
- When additional role-specific or site-specific training may be needed.
EM 385-1-1 and OSHA
How EM 385 Training Relates to OSHA Construction Training
EM 385-1-1 and OSHA construction standards overlap in many practical areas, including hazard recognition, fall protection, PPE, and safe work practices. On projects that adopt EM 385-1-1, the manual and contract can add project-specific safety-management and documentation expectations alongside applicable OSHA requirements.
OSHA Construction Standards
OSHA establishes federal workplace-safety requirements that may apply to construction work. Employers remain responsible for meeting the standards relevant to their activities and hazards.
EM 385-1-1 Project Controls
USACE work can require additional project controls, including accident-prevention planning, Activity Hazard Analyses, inspections, and role-specific or site-specific training.
Training requirements in practice
Who Should Check Their EM 385-1-1 Training Requirement?
EM 385-1-1 training is most relevant to contractors and employees working on projects where the manual is incorporated into the contract, project plan, or employer safety program. The requirement should always be confirmed against the work you will perform.
Contractors and Project Teams
Civilian contractors, subcontractors, supervisors, and workers may need to provide training records where EM 385-1-1 requirements form part of the project. The contract and project safety documentation should identify the expected training.
Why the Training Matters
Appropriate training helps teams understand the safety controls, planning, hazard analysis, and documentation expected on applicable projects. It is one part of preparing to meet project requirements and work safely onsite.
