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

We Can All Reduce Flooding in The Rouge River

Have you noticed that our rain patterns have changed in Southeast Michigan? Those of you that have had your basement flood are saying “heck yes!” Climate change has significantly increased the frequency and intensity of flooding in the Rouge River watershed and Southeast Michigan. Warmer temperatures lead to more moisture in the atmosphere, resulting in heavier rainfall events and more frequent downpours. This overwhelms outdated drainage systems, leading to flooding. In addition, warmer winters cause snow to melt earlier, leading to rapid runoff and increased flows in the Rouge River. This can exacerbate flooding, especially when combined with heavy rainfall.

A lot of us know the consequences of the increased rainfall and flooding we have had over the last several years. These include significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure; road closures and disruption to transportation and other essential services; damage to crops and disruption to supply chains which affect the local economy; and even an increase in breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Communities within the Rouge River watershed are looking at ways to fund and invest in infrastructure upgrades, such as improved drainage systems and flood barriers.  They are also looking at ways to improve ordinances and master plans. Additionally, sustainable land use practices and green infrastructure are being implemented. All of these are being incorporated to help reduce the impact of flooding across the watershed.

You can be part of the solution as well!  If you live in a subdivision with detention ponds, making sure that they are maintained and working properly will reduce flooding in your neighborhood.  Also make sure the storm drains on your street are clear of debris that could block the drain.  Consider building rain gardens and planting trees in your yard, which help slow the rainfall, allowing it to soak into the soil instead of entering the storm drain system. Rain barrels are also a great way to reduce the amount of rain entering the Rouge River and provide the homeowner with free water for your yard and garden.

Visit the Alliance of Rouge Communities website to learn more ways you can reduce flooding and protect water quality in the Rouge River.

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 the Alliance of Rouge Communities website.

View a pdf of the Protect Water Quality poster.  

Occupational Health and Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

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

MIOSHA and the American Society of Safety Professionals, West Michigan Chapter, invites Michigan employers and employees to join us for an informal networking event focused on workplace safety and health.

Coffee with MIOSHA events are informal networking events designed for safety professionals. These events provide a chance to connect with MIOSHA administrative, enforcement and consultative staff to ask questions and learn about our programs and services to enhance workplace safety and health. 

Special Presentation: Situational Awareness Training
A Kent County Sheriff's Deputy will deliver an insightful presentation on situational awareness, emphasizing personal safety and effective decision-making.

Don’t miss out—this event is free!
Register online today to reserve your spot.

Coffee with MIOSHA
December 5, 2024, 9 – 11 a.m.
Feyen Zylstra
2396 Hillside Dr.
Grand Rapids, MI 49544

Fire and Life Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

 Thanksgiving Safety

The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving. Kids love to be involved in holiday preparations. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving Day when there is a lot of activity and people at home.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food. 
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns. 
• Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.

Did you know?

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

Have activities that keep kids out of the kitchen during this busy time. Games, puzzles, or books can keep them busy. Kids can get involved in Thanksgiving preparations with recipes that can be done outside the kitchen.