On July 24, 2025 the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced the expansion of its Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), which seek to encourage more businesses—especially those in high-risk sectors like agriculture—to adopt proactive safety and health management practices. For agricultural employers this news brings both opportunities and important considerations. 

OSHA’s VPP recognizes worksites that implement effective safety and health management systems and maintain injury and illness rates below national averages for their industries. Participating employers undergo a rigorous application process and commit to ongoing self-evaluation, worker involvement, and continuous improvement in workplace safety. The program’s expansion includes providing technical assistance, guidance, and resources to employers seeking to enhance their health and safety protocols.  

Additionally, OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program offers free, confidential advice to small and mid-sized businesses, helping them identify workplace hazards and improve safety practices. On-Site Consultation services are separate from departmental enforcement efforts and, according to OSHA resources, do not result in penalties or citations. Consultants from local agencies or universities work with employers to identify workplace hazards, provide advice for compliance with OSHA standards, and assist in establishing and improving safety and health programs. 

What Does it Mean 

Participation in OSHA sponsored voluntary compliance programs can result in enhanced safety benefits for agricultural employers by helping to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses, promote a culture of safety, and enhance employee morale—critical factors in an industry where workers often face unique and hazardous conditions. VPP participants must be re-evaluated every three to five years to remain in the program and are exempt from OSHA programmed inspections while they maintain their VPP status. 

However, while these benefits are compelling, the opportunities are not without obligation or potential impact. VPP participants must be prepared for thorough evaluations, potential changes to their safety protocols, and a sustained commitment to OSHA’s safety benchmarks. And while the On-Site Consultation Program offers a proactive opportunity to address safety issues, employers must also consider the program’s scope and how consultation findings might impact future regulatory oversight. 

A few key steps to consider before committing to a government sponsored voluntary safety program: 

• Review OSHA’s resources and guidelines (important links provided above). 

• Conduct an internal assessment of current safety practices and identify potential gaps. 

• Given the regulatory complexities and potential long-term implications of participating in government-sponsored safety programs, it is strongly recommended that you consult with legal counsel before enrolling in any voluntary initiatives.