But other COVID-19 protocols still in place
Michigan is no longer requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural employees.
This comes as the state has seen increasing vaccination rates; declining COVID-19 cases; expanded access to testing and vaccinations; and enhanced housing and worker protections currently in effect to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
"With COVID-19 transmission numbers low and increasing vaccination rates, we are removing the requirement for testing for these workers," said Elizabeth Hertel, director of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). "The most important tool we have is the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine and we encourage everyone to join the nearly 62% of Michiganders who have already been vaccinated as soon as possible."
Meanwhile, agricultural laborer housing camps must still establish COVID-19 preparedness and response plans, and provide quarantine housing for workers who were exposed to COVID-19, among other protections.
Since June 22, MIOSHA has also allowed employers to use their best judgment in determining whether to maintain daily health screenings, face covering requirements and social distancing requirements.
Workers can report health and safety concerns in the workplace, with additional information available here.
"We have made great progress in containing COVID-19 in our state and we continue to provide critical workplace protections more focused on areas of increased COVID-19 risk," said Sean Egan, Michigan COVID-19 workplace safety director. "In non-health care settings, it's important that all employers recognize that they have a general duty to provide a safe workplace."
