14 Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. At a recent ABC new member meeting I started my introduction with “Don’t worry, I’m here from the government, and I’m here to help.” Most everyone laughed…it is a joke that rings true for a lot of people, and this is precisely the largest obstacle that the MIOSHA Alliance with ABC faces. When I sat down last year to discuss the goals for the renewal of the MIOSHA Alliance there was no shortage of ideas of how to create value for ABC members in improving their safety and health. During the discussion they looked me dead in the eye and said, “Mark, we need to build trust.” And he was right. There is a pervasive belief that working with or reaching out to MIOSHA results in “being on the radar” or on “a list” that will result in enforcement visits. On the face, you may think this seems possible “Trust me, I’m with MIOSHA.” ast MIOSHA or even probable. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Here are a few facts to help dispel popular misconceptions: » MIOSHA Consultation, Education, & Training (CET) division is not affiliated with enforcement. CET and enforcement are separate divisions within MIOSHA. We have separate management and leadership. While we do interact on occasion, we have strict policies on sharing information, calendar access, and client information. If I colluded with enforcement to put people on a “list” who were simply asking for help, I would lose my job (and rightfully so). » MIOSHA does not fund itself through penalties. MIOSHA has no vested interest in issuing citations. Monetary fines go directly to the State of Michigan General Fund, not towards us keeping the lights on. We are judged by reducing injury and illness rates of Michigan workers. While citations have their purpose, undermining the working relationships that CET works to establish would do far more harm than good and ultimately be counterproductive to our mission. » MIOSHA’s policy is to educate before we regulate. We are able to reach many more people and have a greater impact on worker health and safety by taking a proactive approach and preventing injuries through training and education. Enforcement activity can only go so far in reacting to violations and injuries. The robust and interactive programs that are offered through CET have a long-lasting impact on the prevention of injury through training and education that remains effective long after the CET visit. Now that we discussed some of the things that MIOSHA’s CET division doesn’t do, let’s talk about what they can do for ABC members. We offer training, consultative service and advice, feedback on creating effective safety and health management systems, jobsite walkthroughs (often called a mock inspection), guidance on compliance, and advice on how to protect employees. All of this is free of charge, and is not associated with fines or citations. We have consultants who specialize in construction, general industry, and even have industrial hygienists available to provide assistance. In short, CET staff are here to help answer your questions, navigate compliance, protect your employees, and get better as a company…without putting you on “a list.” MIOSHA Director Bart Pickelman with ABC Michigan Chapter Presidents Keith Ledbetter, Angela Madarang and former President Norm Brady.
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