As Michigan reaches 300,000+ cases of COVID-19, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) is focusing on office environments and how the close proximity of employees can lead to outbreaks of the virus.
On November 5, the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reported 18 new outbreaks from the previous week tied to office settings and is continuing to track 21 outbreaks tied to offices previously reported.
On November 15, in an effort to break the cycle of spread, MDHHS issued a new emergency order that enacted a three-week pause targeting indoor social gatherings and other group activities, including office work.
Under the current guidelines, employers are required to create a policy prohibiting in-person work for employees to the extent that their work activities can feasibly be completed remotely. Under statute, MIOSHA can cite employers, require abatement, and fine them up to $7,000 for failing to produce a remote work policy or if the employer’s preparedness and response plan is non-compliant.