Environmental Health and Safety

Current Events

Annual Job-Related Injuries and Illnesses Information Available

MIOSHA is reminding Michigan employers they are required to post the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred in 2024. The information gathered from these logs greatly benefits employers, workers and MIOSHA in evaluating the safety of a workplace and making the necessary changes to eliminate hazards.  Employers must post the MIOSHA Form 300A in their establishments from Feb. 1 to April 30, 2025.  An electronic copy of the  is available for viewing.

A physical copy of the 2024-MIOSHA 300A Summary Log is located in the Campus Support Services (CSS) Building, on the Regulatory Communication Board.

Storm Water Education and Participation Opportunities In the Community

Protect Water Quality All Season Long!

Promotional flyer titled "Protect Water Quality All Season Long" with tips for maintaining the Rouge River Watershed. Includes text on stormwater, wastewater, and actions like using phosphorus-free fertilizer and maintaining septic systems. Features images such as a map, a pet owner cleaning up, and lawns.What is a Watershed?

We all live in a watershed - an area of land that drains to a common body of water, such as a lake, river stream (and even groundwater). Understanding the watershed concept is important because it allows to comprehend that we can have an impact on water quality far beyond our own back door.

Learn the Difference
What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is water that originates during rain events and snow/ice melt and travels over land or through storm drains, catch basins or pipes (called outfalls) and ends up untreated in our rivers, streams and lakes.

What is Wastewater?

Wastewater is water that has been used in the home, in a business, or as part of an industrial process and is treated before it is released back to the environment.

What to do?
  • Plant a variety of native species around detention ponds which will enhance water quality, minimize algae blooms and encourage wildlife habitat.
  • Pick up after your pet to prevent the bacteria from washing into drainage ditches and storm drains which go straight to the Rouge River.
  • Waterfront property owners should plant trees, shrubs, taller grasses and wildflowers between the shoreline and upland areas to minimize the amount
    of pollutants entering the waterway.
  • Maintain your septic system by having it inspected every 3 years by a licensed contractor and having your tank pumped every 3-5 years.
  • Use slow release, phosphorus-free fertilize and don’t fertilize right before it rains or along any body of water to help protect the Rouge River.
  • Dispose of your boat waste properly, keep bilges clean with absorbent sponges or pads, and inspect boats and trailers for plant debris and zebra mussels.
  • Keep storm drains clear of debris to prevent storm sewer blockages and minimize the amount of pollutants entering the Rouge River.
  • Minimize use of your washing machine, dishwasher or shower during times of heavy rain because it stresses the sewer system.

The , or ARC, is a non-profit organization consisting of local municipalities, counties, educational institutions and stewardship groups working together to improve the Rouge River. The ARC is funded by membership dues from local governments and supported by grants. The ARC and its partners work cooperatively to meet water quality requirements mandated by the state’s stormwater permit and to restore beneficial uses, such as canoeing, fishing and other recreational activities, to the Rouge River.

Occupational Health and Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

Dark banner with green coffee cup icon and text "Coffee With MIOSHA."

MIOSHA invites employers and employees to share a cup of coffee and learn about the importance of workplace safety and health.

Coffee with MIOSHA events provide an informal opportunity for employers and employees to meet with MIOSHA representatives (consultative, enforcement, and radiation safety) to ask questions, obtain information on program services and resources, learn about MIOSHA Training Institute (MTI) opportunities and establish rapport.

Coffee with MIOSHA events!

When:  June 24, 2025  |  8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Where: | 14661 W Eleven Mile Rd. Suite 500, Oak Park, MI 48237

 

Fire and Life Safety Information and Learning Opportunities

Flyer giving safety tips for grilling, how to deal with charcoal and check for a propane leak.Grilling Safety

There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

Safety Tips
  • Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
  • The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.
  • Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
Charcoal Grills
  • There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
  • If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
  • Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
  • There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
  • When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
Propane Grills
  • Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
  • If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it.
Facts
  • July is the peak month for grill fires.
  • Roughly half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns.

Source: National Fire Protection Association: nfpa.org/education

Covid-19 Safety Information

The Environmental Health and Safety at the University of Michigan-Dearborn is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of our campus community.  Visit the Health and Vaccinations page for current information regarding COVID-19.

The Dearborn campus offers face coverings (surgical and KN95 masks) to any student, faculty, or staff member that would like to use them while they are on campus.  If you need a face mask, you can pick one up at during their regular operating hours.

Our Mission

The Mission of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is to support the University’s Mission through partnership, guidance, and education to promote health and safety, protection of the environment, and regulatory compliance.

Our Vision states how we intend to meet that mission:

  • EHS will lead the University in development, dissemination and application of health, safety, and environmental programs. Environment health and safety programs will be integrated into University activities while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
  • EHS will provide resources, guidance and training to the University community in matters related to environmental health and safety.
  • EHS activities will incorporate the values of quality, responsibility, accountability, trust, diversity, flexibility, and respect.

Campus Drinking Water Quality Initiative

ÂÜÀòÉç-Dearborn Facilities Operations/Environmental Health and Safety collected drinking water samples from all occupied university buildings (Except the following: ROC, FLPB, MRL) to assess lead levels. Lead levels in all drinking water samples were below the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) concentrations.

Campus Drinking Water Quality

Campus-Wide Water Sampling Program

The University of Michigan–Dearborn Facilities Operations Environmental Health and Safety team collected drinking water samples from all occupied university buildings that supply drinking water to assess lead levels and other representative water quality parameters. Lead levels in all drinking water samples were below the  of 15 parts per billion (ppb).  EHS has drafted a  that provides an overview of the collection, analytical and management plan for assuring our water is safe for consumption.

Environmental Health and Safety

108 - Auxiliary Program Center
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128
Phone: 313-583-6679
Fax: 313-493-9161