Govt. rules if you receive a grant

[COVFM]

I have just started volunteering in a non-OSHA state (Colorado). There is a concern within the depart. about applying and receiving a FIRE grant and the impact it may have on the department. Some feel that accepting a grant would open up all kinds of issues such as OSHA compliance. Does anyone have any experience or advice about this? I would hate to see us give up a chance for some much needed help because of this.

[BeauDixon]

You will not be open up to exposure from OSHA just for applying and/or receiving a Fire Act Grant from FEMA.

[dragonfyre]

Pennsylvania is a non-OSHA state and we received a grant last year with no problems.

Our only problem is that PA is also a non reporting state for the fire reporting required, but we are sending in the reports as required.

[COVFM]

Thanks for the replies. The Admin. here is worried that we are opening ourselves up to a bunch of govt. rules and interference if we apply for and receive a grant. I assumed that are many depts. that are Non-OSHA that got grants last year. The Fed. and state would probably be all over us no matter what if we were to have some kind of accident/injury whether we were OSHA or not plus I don't think the are going to be chasing after the thousands of depts. that get grants.

[COVFM]

Are there any Colorado depts. who applied and received grants last year or are applying this year? I'd like to know if you had any problems or if you did get a grant, what did you use it for.

[firemedic110]

The purpose of the grant is to help provide for safety of fire fighters and the public. They will not criticize you for being
under standards, rather they will try to help you meet national
standards. Give it a try. Call the toll-free number if you have
questions. Good luck!