Posted On: April 12, 2024

EM 385-1-1 Manual Updates: What You Need To Know

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has released a new version of the EM 385-1-1 manual. Considering the last time it was released was in 2014, there are some pretty major updates. This blog post will break down the key changes you need to know about, ensuring you stay compliant and up-to-date with the latest safety and occupational health (SOH) requirements.

What is EM 385 Training?

EM 385 training refers to a series of courses designed to educate workers on the safety and occupational health (SOH) requirements outlined in the EM 385-1-1 manual. This training is mandatory for anyone involved in USACE activities, including military and government employees, contractors, and construction personnel working on military contracts.

Who Needs EM 385 Training?

The specific type of EM 385 training required depends on your role and responsibilities. Here's a breakdown of the different categories:

40-Hour Training: This comprehensive course covers the entire EM 385-1-1 manual and is designed for Site Safety and Health Officers (SSHOs), Collateral Duty Safety Officers (CDSOs), managers, supervisors, and anyone needing in-depth knowledge of the SOH requirements.
24-Hour Training: This course caters to contractors, military/government personnel, and CDSOs. It fulfills a portion of the 24-hour refresher training mandated for CDSOs every four years.
16-Hour Training: This introductory course provides an overview of the EM 385-1-1 manual and is intended for contractors and military/government personnel who need to understand and comply with SOH standards.
8-Hour Training: This refresher course is designed for SSHOs to maintain their annual training requirements. It's also valuable for anyone seeking to refresh their knowledge on the key safety and health aspects of the manual.

What's New in the Revised EM 385-1-1 Manual?

The revised EM 385-1-1 manual brings several significant changes aimed at enhancing safety and streamlining procedures. Here are some key highlights:

Streamlined Structure: Gone are the days of navigating through a maze of information. The new manual is reorganized into 37 focused chapters, each dedicated to a specific safety topic. For increased ease of use, all chapters follow a consistent structure with headings like "Training Requirements" and "Minimum Plan Requirements." This allows users to quickly locate the information they need.
New Chapters: Recognizing the evolving nature of safety concerns, the revised manual introduces three entirely new chapters:

Rope Access – Chapter 23: This chapter addresses the specific safety protocols and training requirements for personnel who perform tasks requiring rope access techniques.
Uncrewed Aircraft (Drones) – Chapter 33: With the growing use of drones in various applications, this chapter establishes safety guidelines for operating drones within the scope of USACE projects.
Emergency Operations – Chapter 37: This crucial chapter outlines protocols and procedures to be followed in the event of emergencies on USACE projects.

Enhanced Training Requirements: The revised manual clarifies training requirements for different personnel categories, ensuring everyone involved in USACE activities possesses the necessary SOH knowledge. The familiar 40-, 24-, 16-, and 8-hour training categories are still used, making it easier for individuals to identify the training they need.
Integration of New Systems: The revision incorporates the newly established USACE Safety and Occupational Health Management System (CE-SOHMS), promoting a more comprehensive approach to safety management.
Elimination of Redundancies: The revised manual streamlines content by eliminating repetitive information, making it more concise and user-friendly.
Focus on Specific Requirements: The revision removes unsubstantiated requirements, ensuring all guidelines are clearly defined and have a clear safety purpose.
New and Updated Safety Requirements: The revised manual introduces new safety requirements in several areas, including:
Fire Prevention and Protection: Enhanced protocols for fire watches and associated safety measures.
Vehicles, Machinery, and Mechanized Equipment: Focus on defensive driving training for personnel operating these vehicles and equipment.
Loading Handling Equipment: Requirements for medical evaluations of personnel operating loading and handling equipment.
Blasting: Clearer guidelines for the Blaster-in-Charge role and the development of comprehensive explosive site safety plans.
Sanitation: Emphasis on food service worker training and implementation of effective extermination plans.

A Commitment to Safety

The revised EM 385-1-1 manual signifies the US Army Corps of Engineers' unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its personnel. This comprehensive revision demonstrates a proactive approach to SOH by addressing emerging safety concerns, streamlining procedures, and ensuring everyone involved in USACE activities possesses the necessary knowledge to work safely and effectively.

What to Expect When the Revised Manual Takes Effect

While the core safety principles remain the foundation, users can expect a significant difference in accessing and utilizing the information within the manual. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Increased Document Length: Due to the addition of new chapters, expanded content on specific safety topics, and the inclusion of essential details for various procedures, the revised manual is considerably longer than the previous version.
Underlined Text: To highlight the extensive revisions made throughout the manual, all new or modified text is underlined. While this can initially seem overwhelming, it can also be a valuable tool for users familiar with the previous version, allowing them to quickly identify the updated information.
Importance of Training: The emphasis on clearly defined training requirements in the revised manual underscores the significance of ongoing SOH education. By ensuring all personnel receive the appropriate training based on their roles and responsibilities, USACE fosters a safety culture where everyone is empowered to identify and mitigate potential hazards.

The revised EM 385-1-1 manual represents a significant step forward for the US Army Corps of Engineers in its commitment to safety. The streamlined structure, new chapters addressing emerging safety concerns, and emphasis on comprehensive training empower personnel at all levels to work safely and contribute to a positive safety culture within USACE projects.

Stay Ahead of the Curve with 360training

Keeping pace with the latest safety regulations is a must for anyone involved in USACE activities. Here at 360training, we understand this importance. That's why we offer comprehensive online EM 385 training programs designed with the revised manual in mind.

Our training courses are continually updated to reflect the latest changes and best practices, ensuring you have the most current information at your fingertips. Whether you require the in-depth 40-hour training or the 8-hour refresher course, we have a program tailored to your needs.

Take action today and enroll in our EM 385 training! By investing in your safety education, you're not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a safer work environment for everyone on USACE projects.

Looking for comprehensive training solutions for your team? Reach out to our sales team today!