Environmental Health and Safety

Current Events

Annual Job-Related Injuries and Illnesses Information Available

MIOSHA is reminding Michigan employers they are required to post the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred in 2023. The information gathered from these logs greatly benefits employers, workers and MIOSHA in evaluating the safety of a workplace and making the necessary changes to eliminate hazards.  Employers must post the MIOSHA Form 300A in their establishments from Feb. 1 to April 30, 2023.  An electronic copy of the 2023 Summary Log is available for viewing.

A physical copy of the 2023-MIOSHA 300A Summary Log is located in the Campus Support Services (CSS) Building, on the Regulatory Communication Board.

Storm Water Education and Participation Opportunities In the Community

2024 Training Rouge Frog & Toad Survey Training

Training is offered every spring for those who would like to commit to surveying wetlands twice a month, March through July, after dark, and record what species of frogs and toads are calling. Information and materials are provided at the annual training.

The 2024 Training is complete (view workshop slides here). If you are still interested and willing to self train, please click the below button to sign up. Register to Survey.

Protect Water Quality All Season Long!

What is a Watershed?  

We all live in a watershed - an area of land that drains to a common body of water, such as a lake, river or stream (and even groundwater). Understanding the watershed concept is important because it allows us to comprehend that we can have an impact on water quality far beyond our own back door. 

Learn the Difference

What is Stormwater? Stormwater is water that originates during rain events and snow/ice melt and travels over land or through storm drains, catch basins or pipes (called outfalls) and ends up untreated in our rivers, streams and lakes. 

What is Wastewater? Wastewater is water that has been used in the home, in a business, or as part of an industrial process and is treated before it is released back to the environment.

• Plant a variety of native species around detention ponds which will enhance water quality, minimize algae blooms and encourage wildlife habitat.
• Use slow release, phosphorus-free fertilize and don’t fertilize right before it rains or along any body of water to help protect the Rouge River.
• Pick up after your pet to prevent the bacteria from washing into drainage ditches and storm drains which go straight to the Rouge River.
• Dispose of your boat waste properly, keep bilges clean with absorbent sponges or pads, and inspect boats and trailers for plant debris and zebra mussels.
• Waterfront property owners should plant trees, shrubs, taller grasses and wildflowers between the shoreline and upland areas to minimize the amount of pollutants entering the waterway.
• Keep storm drains clear of debris to prevent storm sewer blockages and minimize the amount of pollutants entering the Rouge River.
• Maintain your septic system by having it inspected every 3 years by a licensed contractor and having your tank pumped every 3-5 years.
• Minimize use of your washing machine, dishwasher or shower during times of heavy rain because it stresses the sewer system.

The Alliance of Rouge Communities, or ARC, is a non-profit organization consisting of local municipalities, counties, educational institutions and stewardship groups working together to improve the Rouge River. The ARC is funded by membership dues from local governments and supported by grants. The ARC and its partners work cooperatively to meet water quality requirements mandated by the state’s stormwater permit and to restore beneficial uses, such as canoeing, fishing and other recreational activities, to the Rouge River.

For more information visit: www.allianceofrougecommunities.com

View a pdf of the Protect Water Quality poster.  

Occupational Health and Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

MIOSHA invites Michigan employers and employees to share a cup of coffee and learn about the importance of workplace safety and health.

Coffee with MIOSHA events are informal networking events for health and safety professionals and allow employers and employees to meet with MIOSHA administrative, enforcement and consultative staff to ask questions and learn about our programs and services.

Register online with Incompass Michigan for the free event.  

Coffee with MIOSHA
July 17, 2024, 8 – 10 a.m. 
Incompass Michigan 
335 Seymour Ave.  
Lansing, MI 48933

Fire and Life Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays. The only safe way to view fireworks is to attend a professional show. It is important to know that fireworks are not safe in the hands of consumers. Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year.

A few ideas to get into the patriotic spirit, without fireworks:

1. Use glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to a sparkler. Fun for all ages.
2. Loud and proud. Noise makers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local party supply stores or make your own.
3. Outdoor movie night. Set up a screen and projector. Don’t forget the bugs pray!
4. Red, white and blue silly string…fun for all ages.
5. Make a patriotic craft with the family.
6. Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don’t forget the cake.

How hot does a sparkler burn?

Sparklers burn at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. In comparison, glass melts at 900 degrees, wood burns at 575 degrees, a cake bakes at 350 degrees and water boils at 212 degrees.

Facts

• More than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually.  
• Burns account for 44% of the 9,100 injuries treated in emergency rooms seen in the month around July 4. 
• Half of the fireworks injuries seen at emergency rooms were extremities: hand, finger, or leg. One-third were to the eye or other parts of the head. 
• Children ages 10–14 had the highest rate of fireworks injury, with more than one-third (36%) of the victims of fireworks injuries under age 15. 
• Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) 2018 Fireworks Annual Report