North Idaho Safety Fest returns to Post Falls with free training

Registration opened today for the 18th annual North Idaho Safety Fest, a three-day set of free safety trainings at the North Idaho College Workforce Training Center in Post Falls from Feb. 18 to Feb. 20. The event brings frontline workers, safety professionals and members of the public together for hands-on courses that often satisfy Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirements and lead to industry-recognized certifications.

Organizers describe Safety Fest as a community effort rather than a single-agency program. Colleen Hoffman, event organizer and NIC Workforce Training customized training manager, said, “Safety Fest brings people together around a serious purpose, and the energy is upbeat and engaging.” She noted the event builds a sense of optimism as hundreds of people gather “to learn, share and strengthen safety in our workplaces and our region.”

Safety Fest has expanded into one of the region’s most collaborative safety gatherings. Volunteer instructors cover a wide array of topics, including fall protection, mine safety, suicide prevention and cyber awareness. In 2025 the event featured 53 instructors offering 80 classes; over three days 577 students participated and completed 1,354 total class registrations, many of which met OSHA training requirements.

Local industry representatives say the event is an annual fixture for employers and vendors. “As a member of the Safety Fest Committee, I have watched this event grow each year,” said Greg Rodriguez with Ginno Construction Co. “It is always good to see the participants and vendors that return each year to support this event.” That continuity matters to Kootenai County businesses that face evolving regulatory obligations and a tight labor market.

Organizers emphasize benefits beyond compliance. A safer workplace reduces injuries and illnesses, helps retain employees and strengthens the culture of care that supports long-term business stability. “Safety Fest is about protecting people,” Hoffman said. Many of the free courses also translate into credentials that workers can carry to other jobs and industries, supporting workforce development across the county.

For employers, small businesses and individual workers in Kootenai County, Safety Fest presents a low-cost way to update training, document compliance and foster safer job sites. Registration opened at 8 a.m. today and early sign-up is recommended because popular classes fill quickly. Visit nic.edu/safetyfest for details and to register.

By making safety training widely accessible, the event aims to reduce workplace harm and strengthen local capacity. For residents and employers, the next step is simple: register, pick the classes that match your industry needs and bring crews back to Post Falls in February to build a safer Kootenai County.