Worker Protection Standards subject of Michigan meetings

Three new Worker Protection Standards (WPS) requirements go into effect Jan. 2, 2018. In an effort to keep growers apprised of the new regulations, the Michigan State University Extension floriculture team has developed a one-day educational program that will be available at three different dates and locations in January 2018.

At these meetings, Craig Anderson of Michigan Farm Bureau will explain which standards apply and how to comply, and will discuss OSHA Right-to-Know. Melissa Millerick-May, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, will discuss hazard communication program development and respirator selection.

In addition, there will be annual respirator fit-testings at each meeting. Participants that wish to receive a respirator fit-test should have a medical evaluation conducted by a physician or licensed health care professional (PLHCP) prior to the meeting and are required to present appropriate documentation before fit-testing can be performed.

As an added benefit, attendees are eligible for eight hours of Michigan pesticide re-certification credits.

Those interested in attending the meeting and respirator fit-testing should register online by clicking on one of the links below for the appropriate meeting location closest to you.

Registration

Jan. 5, 2018 – Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Room B, 2900 Lake St., Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Registration 8:30 a.m.
Program 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Contact: Jeremy Jubenville

Jan. 9, 2018 – West Olive
Ottawa County Fillmore Complex, Main Conference Room, 12220 Fillmore St., West Olive, MI 49460
Registration 8:30 a.m.
Program 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Contact: Heidi Lindberg

Jan. 16, 2018 – Novi
MSU Tollgate Farm and Education Center Conference Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Rd., Novi, MI 48377
Registration 8:30 a.m.
Program 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Contact: W. Garrett Owen

– W. Garrett Owen, Michigan State University