Michigan Businesses Oppose Mandatory Workplace Ergonomics Rules

Business groups want to halt efforts to adopt mandatory workplace ergonomics standards in Michigan.

Commissions set up by state regulators are scheduled to take preliminary but key votes on potential rules next week.

A coalition including the National Federation of Independent Business said the rules are not needed because many employers voluntarily make improvements aimed at reducing the number of workplace injuries caused by repetitive movements. They say mandatory ergonomics training and reporting would raise the cost of doing business at a time many employers are struggling because of Michigan’s poor economy.

California is the only state with its own ergonomics rules. The federal government has voluntary ergonomics guidelines.