The ***[EM 385-1-1 manual](https://www.oshapdf.com/collections/construction-industry/products/em-385-1-1-march-2024-book?variant=41706206167172)***, officially titled "Safety and Occupational Health Requirements," is a critical document published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) that sets the safety standards for construction and related activities. As of March 15, 2024, a new edition of this manual is set to take effect, introducing several significant changes that contractors and safety officers must understand to ensure compliance and workplace safety. In this blog, we’ll explore the key changes and what they mean for contractors and their teams. ## What is the EM 385-1-1 Manual? The EM 385-1-1 manual is a comprehensive guide that outlines the safety and occupational health requirements for construction projects and related activities. Created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), this manual serves as a foundational reference for ensuring that safety standards are upheld on job sites, protecting workers and ensuring that operations run smoothly. Contractors working with the government, particularly under contracts that include safety requirements, rely heavily on this manual for compliance and guidance on best practices. ## Key Changes in the March 2024 Edition The March 2024 edition of the EM 385-1-1 manual introduces a range of updates aimed at refining safety practices, streamlining processes, and addressing modern construction challenges. Below are the major changes in this latest edition: **Structural Revisions** One of the most notable updates in the 2024 edition is the reorganization of the manual into 37 chapters, an increase from the previous 34. Each of these chapters now follows a standardized 10-section format, making it easier to navigate and retrieve specific information. This structural revision is designed to enhance the usability of the manual, allowing contractors and safety officers to quickly locate and implement the relevant safety protocols. **New Chapters** Three new chapters have been introduced in this edition, reflecting the evolving nature of construction work and the technologies involved. These chapters are: Chapter 23: Rope Access – As construction increasingly involves working at height, this chapter addresses the specific safety requirements for using rope access techniques. Chapter 33: Uncrewed Aircraft (Drones) – With drones becoming more common on construction sites for surveying and monitoring, this chapter outlines the safety protocols for their operation. Chapter 37: Emergency Operations – This chapter provides guidelines for dealing with emergencies, including natural disasters and other unexpected incidents, ensuring that teams are prepared to respond effectively. **Enhanced Training Requirements** While the core training categories of 40-hour, 24-hour, 16-hour, and 8-hour courses remain the same, the 2024 edition places a stronger emphasis on the role of Safety Officers. Safety Officers are now tasked with identifying specific training needs that are tailored to the hazards encountered in different work environments. This shift ensures that training is not only standardized but also customized to the unique risks of individual job sites, enhancing overall safety. **Updated Safety Requirements** The revised manual includes several new safety requirements aimed at further improving workplace safety. Key updates include: Enhanced Roles for Site Safety and Health Officers (SSHOs) – These officers now have expanded responsibilities in overseeing and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Fire Prevention and Defensive Driving – There are new specific safety requirements related to fire prevention and vehicle safety, particularly focusing on defensive driving and sanitation practices on the job site. Electrical Safety and Hazardous Energy Control – Updated protocols ensure better protection for workers from electrical hazards and outline safer methods for controlling hazardous energy. Subsection 2.5: Accident Prevention Plans (APP) Accident Prevention Plans (APPs) are a critical part of ensuring safety on construction sites. The 2024 edition introduces new formatting requirements and additional documentation that contractors must include in their APPs. This change aims to ensure that all safety measures are comprehensively documented and that no potential hazards are overlooked. ## Compliance and Implications for Contractors All construction contracts awarded under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.236-13 must comply with the March 2024 edition of the EM 385-1-1 manual. For contractors currently working under contracts issued before this edition, compliance with the previous version of the manual will be required until the project’s completion. However, new contracts will have to adhere to the updated standards. Contractors must familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. The revisions in the manual reflect a commitment to clearer safety guidelines and more effective training, meaning contractors who stay ahead of these updates will be better positioned to maintain high safety standards. ## Why the Changes Matter The changes introduced in the EM 385-1-1 March 2024 edition are designed to significantly improve workplace safety across construction and related industries. By providing clearer guidelines and placing a stronger emphasis on training tailored to specific hazards, the updated manual helps reduce workplace accidents and creates a safer environment for workers. The new chapters addressing modern technologies and emergency operations also ensure that the manual stays relevant to today’s construction landscape. These revisions matter because they not only protect workers but also help contractors manage risks more effectively, ultimately contributing to smoother, more efficient operations. ## Conclusion The EM 385-1-1 March 2024 edition represents a vital update to safety standards in the construction industry. With its structural revisions, new chapters, enhanced training requirements, and updated safety protocols, this manual is an essential resource for contractors seeking to ensure compliance and maintain high safety standards. As the new edition takes effect on March 15, 2024, it’s crucial for contractors to familiarize themselves with the changes and integrate them into their operations. Safety is always evolving, and staying informed is the key to protecting both workers and project success.