Michigan Advances Ergonomics Rule Over Business Opposition

Michigan regulators have taken preliminary votes to advance mandatory workplace ergonomics standards over the objections of the business community.

The votes by the General Industry Safety Standards Commission and Occupational Health Standards Commission mean public hearings will be held before the rule is formally adopted by the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MOSHA).

Ergonomics standards and training are designed to promote safer techniques for heavy lifting, repetitive motion and various work positions — activities that if done incorrectly may contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The proposed standard would apply only to businesses in general industry, not construction. If the rule is formally adopted, Michigan would join California, the only state with its own ergonomics rules.

Supporters argue that ergonomics promote safety for workers and can actually save money by reducing injury and workers’ compensation costs. According to the Michigan Workers’ Compensation Bureau, ergonomic hazards account for about 40 percent of the workers’ compensation claims paid in Michigan.

But some employers have argued that mandatory rules raise the cost of doing business at a time when the state is suffering from high unemployment. They also say it is unnecessary since injuries have declined without any mandatory rule.

The National Federation of Independent Business maintains that the new rule would be a “costly and arduous” mandate at a time when many small employers are struggling.

“This is a terrible development for employers in Michigan that are already juggling multiple challenges just to keep their doors open,” said NFIB/Michigan Director Charlie Owens. “And by imposing new regulations more burdensome and costly than 48 other states, MIOSHA is stamping a giant ‘Do Not Enter’ sign on our borders for new business.”

Topics Workers' Compensation Michigan