LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued a set of emergency rules Wednesday to clarify requirements for employers to control, prevent and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Businesses that resume in-person work must, among other things, have a written COVID-19 preparedness and response plan and provide thorough training to employees, according to a news release.
That training must cover, at a minimum, workplace infection control practices, proper use of PPE, steps workers must take to notify the business or operation of any symptoms of the virus or a suspected or confirmed diagnosis and how to report unsafe working conditions.
The emergency rules establish workplace safeguards for all Michigan businesses and specific requirements for certain industries, such as manufacturing, construction, retail, health care, exercise facilities, restaurants and bars.
“As we reengage our economy, the governor’s actions reiterate the importance to keep workplaces safe for employees and protect customers from COVID-19 transmission,” COVID-19 Workplace Safety Director Sean Egan said. “These rules will formalize the workplace safety guidelines previously in place, and are necessary to save lives. We will continue to educate workers and employers on requirements for businesses to get open and stay open.”
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed her agreement with the need for the rules.
“While most Michigan job providers are doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19, these rules provide them with clarity regarding the necessary requirements to keep their workplaces safe and their employees healthy,” Whitmer said. “I will continue to work around the clock with my partners in labor and business to ensure protections for every Michigan worker.”
Read the full guidelines here.