The following is from W. Garrett Owen, Michigan State University Extension educator.
Did you know three new Worker Protection Standards (WPS) requirements go into effect Jan. 2? Are you scratching your head about how to comply with the new and revised WPS regulations? 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 the Kalamazoo County Expo Center in Kalamazoo Jan. 5.
At this meeting, 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.
Those interested in attending the meeting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. should register online at https://events.anr.msu.edu/WPS2018Kalamazoo.