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

Protect Water Quality All Season Long!

Storm Water Poster
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.

Help Protect the Watershed!
  • Use less salt by shoveling early and often to protect the Rouge River. If you do need salt, choose an environmentally friendly alternative.
  • Attend a Friends of the Rouge Winter Stonefly Search close to your community to help gauge the health of the Rouge River.
  • Use your local car wash to keep your car clean. When the buildup on your car melts, it sends the road salt, oil and other pollutants to the storm drain which end up in the Rouge River.
  • Pick up after your pet even in the winter to prevent the bacteria from washing into storm drains and straight to the Rouge River when the snow starts to melt.
  • Winterize your rain barrel to prevent cracking due to cold weather by storing it in your garage, shed or basement and reattach your downspout.
  • This winter, plan a rain garden to include Michigan native plants which slows runoff and provides added filtration before entering the Rouge River.
  • Recycle your holiday greenery, such as your tree, instead of throwing it in the trash. It’s better for the environment.
  • Pour greasy or oily food waste into a jar and put it in the trash to prevent blockages in sewer pipes which can send sewage backward into homes or out manholes into streets and the Rouge River.

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.

 

Occupational Health and Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

Coffee with MIOSHA: Your Chance to Connect and Strengthen Workplace Safety!

Coffee with MIOSHA: Your Chance to Connect and Strengthen Workplace Safety!

MIOSHA and the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Southeastern Michigan invite Michigan employers and employees to join us for an informal networking event focused on workplace safety and health.

Coffee with MIOSHA events are designed for safety professionals, offering a unique opportunity to:

  • Network with MIOSHA administrative, enforcement, and consultative staff.
  • Ask questions and discuss workplace safety challenges.
  • Learn about MIOSHA’s programs and services to enhance safety and health.

Event Details:

  • When: February 12, 2025, 8 – 10 a.m.
  • Where: 31800 Sherman Ave., Madison Heights, MI 48071

RSVP Now to register for the free event.

 

Fire and Life Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

Fire Safety during Winter Storms

Winter storms can happen almost anywhere. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before, during and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire.

  • Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
  • Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
  • Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
  • Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles. 
  • Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online. 
  • Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
  • Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
  • Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities.
  • Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
  • Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed.
Important Reminder

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January, and February.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart!

Fact

Nearly half of all space heater fires involve electric space heaters.

 

Covid-19 Safety Information

The Environmental Health and Safety at the University of Michigan-Dearborn is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of our campus community.  Visit the Health and Vaccinations page for current information regarding COVID-19.

The Dearborn campus offers face coverings (surgical and KN95 masks) to any student, faculty, or staff member that would like to use them while they are on campus.  If you need a face mask, you can pick one up at these locations during their regular operating hours.

Our Mission

The Mission of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is to support the University’s Mission through partnership, guidance, and education to promote health and safety, protection of the environment, and regulatory compliance.

Our Vision states how we intend to meet that mission:

  • EHS will lead the University in development, dissemination and application of health, safety, and environmental programs. Environment health and safety programs will be integrated into University activities while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
  • EHS will provide resources, guidance and training to the University community in matters related to environmental health and safety.
  • EHS activities will incorporate the values of quality, responsibility, accountability, trust, diversity, flexibility, and respect.

Campus Drinking Water Quality Initiative

UM-Dearborn Facilities Operations/Environmental Health and Safety collected drinking water samples from all occupied university buildings (Except the following: ROC, FLPB, MRL) to assess lead levels. Lead levels in all drinking water samples were below the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) concentrations.

Campus Drinking Water Quality

Great Lakes Water Authority - PFAS Testing

Campus-Wide Water Sampling Program

The University of Michigan–Dearborn Facilities Operations Environmental Health and Safety team collected drinking water samples from all occupied university buildings that supply drinking water to assess lead levels and other representative water quality parameters. Lead levels in all drinking water samples were below the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) of 15 parts per billion (ppb).  EHS has drafted a water sampling summary that provides an overview of the collection, analytical and management plan for assuring our water is safe for consumption.

Environmental Health and Safety

108 - Auxiliary Program Center
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128
View on Map
Phone: 313-583-6679
Fax: 313-493-9161