The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has its own safety and health requirements that apply to all Corps of Engineers activities and operations.

Is EM 385 Training the Same as OSHA Training?

Both programs cover similar topics and often require similar safety measures. In fact, EM 385-1-1 incorporates many OSHA standards by reference. However, USACE regulations tend to be more involved than OSHA Construction standards.

How is EM 385-1-1 Different From OSHA Standards?

Some of the technical requirements of EM 385-1-1 are more stringent than 29 CFR 1926.

Who Needs EM 385 Training?

EM 385 training is mandatory for anyone who works on military and federally funded contracts or projects, including contractors and military or government employees expected to enforce or comply with EM 385-1-1.

Which EM 385 Training Do You Need?

There are several EM 385-1-1 courses to choose from. They vary in length, and which one you need depends on your role. Most workers need the 16-Hour EM 385 Training. This is an orientation that covers the safety standards you'll need to comply with on a military or government project. Anyone without supervisory duties should take the 16-hour course.

How Long is EM 385 Good For?

Technically speaking, EM 385 certification doesn't expire. In other words, there's no mandatory refresher period in the EM 385 regulations for most government contract workers.

Posted on: August 14, 2025

What Is EM 385-1-1?

If you've spent any time in construction, you're likely familiar with OSHA training, what it covers, how often it's required, and what to expect. But for those stepping into federal or military construction projects, a different set of safety standards comes into play: EM 385-1-1.

If you're new to government contracting, you might be asking, “What is EM 385-1-1 training?” Don’t worry. It builds on much of what you already know from OSHA, but with a stricter, more detailed approach. Let’s break it down.

What Is EM 385-1-1?

EM 385-1-1 is the Safety and Health Requirements Manual issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). It outlines the safety protocols required for workers on federally funded or military construction projects. “EM” stands for Engineering Manual.

While EM 385 incorporates OSHA standards by reference, it goes further in many areas, requiring more thorough planning, documentation, and proactive risk management.

These courses aren't just a recommendation. If you’re working on U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) contracts or military installations, EM 385-1-1 training is a must.

EM 385 vs. OSHA: What's the Difference?

Both OSHA and EM 385-1-1 aim to protect workers, but EM 385 tends to be far more thorough. For instance, it mandates detailed documentation like a written Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) for every task and an Accident Prevention Plan (APP) for the overall project, neither of which is required by OSHA.

Oversight is also more hands-on under EM 385. Regular inspections of worksites, tools, and machinery are required to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols. And when it comes to communication, EM 385 insists on structured safety meetings. Weekly toolbox talks are required for all workers, while supervisors and foremen must meet monthly to evaluate and improve safety plans. These meetings must be documented thoroughly, with attendee names and discussions specific to the job at hand. Generic safety plans are not accepted; instead, each plan must reflect the real tasks being performed.

OSHA, by comparison, offers more flexibility in how safety is managed. EM 385-1-1 is much more prescriptive, requiring constant engagement and documentation to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.

The Role of a Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO)

One of the biggest differences between EM 385 and OSHA is the requirement to appoint a full-time Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) on any federally funded project. The SSHO is responsible for monitoring hazards on site, enforcing compliance with the AHA and APP, organizing safety meetings, and ensuring that safety practices are upheld consistently, even across multiple shifts or job sites.

This isn’t a part-time role or an added duty for a supervisor. The SSHO must be dedicated full-time to safety and health oversight to guarantee ongoing compliance throughout the life of the project.

Who Needs EM 385-1-1 Training?

Successfully completing an EM 385-1-1 course is mandatory for contractors working on federal or military construction projects, as well as for government or military personnel involved in overseeing such work. This also includes supervisors, crew leaders, and safety officers who are involved in managing day-to-day operations on site.

Even some state and local government projects may require EM 385 safety training, especially if the project receives federal funding or if the agency wants to adopt more robust safety practices to limit liability.

Which EM 385-1-1 Training Course Should You Take?

The training you need depends on your job role and responsibilities. Most workers without supervisory duties will need to complete the 16-hour EM 385 course, which serves as an orientation to the safety requirements of military or federal job sites.

If your role includes safety oversight but isn’t your primary job, such as a Collateral Duty Safety Officer (CDSO), you’ll need the 24-hour EM 385 course. This version includes more in-depth material tailored to individuals with part-time safety responsibilities.

For those assigned as full-time Site Safety and Health Officers (SSHOs), a 40-hour EM 385 course is required, along with an annual 8-hour refresher to stay compliant. Additionally, many government contractors and safety leads are expected to hold a current OSHA 30 card in conjunction with their EM 385 training.

Does EM 385-1-1 Training Expire?

For most roles, EM 385-1-1 does not technically expire. However, it’s common for employers or contract managers to require periodic refresher training to ensure ongoing compliance and awareness. Because failure to follow EM 385 protocols can result in fines, delays, or even loss of contract, staying up to date is critical.

Always check with your contracting officer or employer to confirm how often refresher training is expected, as requirements can vary from one project or agency to another.

Get EM 385-1-1 Training Online

Whether you're leading a construction crew on a military base or supporting a federally funded infrastructure project, EM 385-1-1 training is essential for compliance, safety, and efficiency. Our online EM 385-1-1 Safety & Health Training is delivered by an OSHA-authorized provider and fully meets USACE standards.

Our courses are 100% online, flexible and convenient. You can learn at your own pace and complete the training from anywhere with internet access.

Need training for your entire team? You can contact our commercial sales department for everything you need. Head to our website to get started today!