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Michigan updates COVID-19 workplace guidance as employees return to office

By Amber Ainsworth
Published  May 24, 2021 7:12am EDT
Coronavirus in Michigan
FOX 2 Detroit

Gov. Whitmer provides MIOSHA workplace COVID-19 update

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided updated COVID-19 guidance for workplaces Monday.

DETROIT (FOX 2) - After reaching the first benchmark in the Vacc to Normal plan, Michigan workers can return to the office Monday.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer shared updated workplace guidance from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

The updated guidance includes:

  • Employers may allow fully vaccinated employees to not wear face coverings and social distance provided they have a policy deemed effective to ensure non-vaccinated individuals continue to follow these requirements.
  • The rules have been reformed focusing on performance, eliminating industry-specific requirements. Definitions have been updated to more clearly reflect changes in close contact and quarantining requirements for fully vaccinated employees.
  • Cleaning requirements have been updated to reflect changes in CDC recommendations.
  • Employers should continue to have and implement a written COVID-19 preparedness and response plan in accordance with the updated rules.

Whitmer also said that bars can reopen common areas, such as pool tables and dance floors.

Businesses can decide to require masks and social distancing still if they wish.

According to the Vacc to Normal plan, workers who have been working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic were able to return to in-person work two weeks after 55% of the state's adult population had received at least one dose of the vaccine.

That benchmark was hit two weeks ago. The plan also laid out other steps for reopening Michigan, but officials scrapped it last week. Now, restrictions will be lifted on two set dates: June 1 and July 1.

MORE: Michigan scraps 'Vacc to Normal,' announces when COVID-19 restrictions will end

On June 1, all indoor capacity limits will rise to 50% and all outdoor capacity limits will be lifted. The curfew on bars and restaurants will also end.

On July 1, all COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted.