The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) and the West Michigan Chapter of the ASSE held a “Coffee with MIOSHA” session at Calvin College in Grand Rapids to provide an informal opportunity for employers and company leaders to meet with MIOSHA representatives to learn about agency services and resources.
Nearly 60 employers and employees attended to receive an agency update from MIOSHA Deputy Director Bart Pickelman, ask questions, and learn how they can partner with MIOSHA to achieve greater safety and health in the workplace.
“Connecting MIOSHA to Industry” is a multi-year project to enhance customer service and program effectiveness. In line with LARA’s “customer driven, business minded” philosophy, the initiative focuses on increased communication, coordination and outreach throughout the MIOSHA program. Whether conducted by consultation or enforcement staff, the goal is to ensure MIOSHA interventions are informative and valuable.
For those who attended, the information learned and connections made were valuable.
“I thought the presentation was very helpful to the local business community to hear the upcoming changes in MIOSHA,” said Margaret Wan, an assistant professor at Ferris State University. “I really encourage people to attend the event and it’s free!”
Brian Oczepek, corporate safety manager for Consumers Energy shared similar sentiments.
“This event is a great opportunity for our West Michigan ASSE chapter to reach out to a new audience of safety professionals,” said Oczepek. “Thank you to Calvin College for sponsoring this event.”
The West Michigan Chapter of the ASSE and Calvin College sponsored the event in an effort to better “Connect MIOSHA to Industry.”
“We thank the ASSE West Michigan Chapter for accommodating MIOSHA and the event’s attendees,” said Pickelman. “These sessions are a valuable way to connect with employers and workers who may not otherwise be familiar with MIOSHA services and the many ways we can help them”
To view a list of upcoming “Coffee with MIOSHA” events, click here.
MIOSHA was created by Public Act 154 of 1974 and became effective in 1975.
Source: LARA