MIOSHA Indicates That It Does Not Intend to Adopt Federal OSHA’s COVID-19 Focused Inspection Initiative for Hospitals and Other Healthcare Facilities

On March 7, 2022, federal OSHA announced its plans for a focused, short term (from March 9, 2022 to June 9, 2022) COVID-19 inspection initiative directed at hospitals and other healthcare facilities.  This initiative was the focus of Miller Johnson’s March 10, 2022 Client Alert, in which hospitals and other healthcare facilities were advised to prepare for an increase in COVID-19 related inspections and enforcement activity from MIOSHA (Michigan’s occupational safety and health enforcement agency).

The March 10, 2022 Client Alert prompted a positive dialogue with MIOSHA.  From that dialogue, Miller Johnson has learned that MIOSHA does not intend to follow federal OSHA’s inspection initiative, and it does not intend to increase COVID-19 related inspections and enforcement activity at hospitals and other healthcare facilities in Michigan.

We will keep clients apprised of any changes to MIOSHA’s position on this initiative.  For now, hospitals and other facilities should not expect to see an increase in COVID-19 related inspections and enforcement activity in Michigan.  Hospitals and other healthcare facilities should continue to remain diligent in protecting their employees from COVID-19, including ensuring that they are provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the authors.