Michigan Lone Worker

Our Guide To Lone Worker Safety Policy And Legislation In Michigan

Because Michigan runs a state OSHA program, employers must follow the regulations enforced by MIOSHA, under the oversight of LEO. While MIOSHA does not have a regulation written specifically for lone workers, the agency applies broader safety standards—including the General Duty Clause—to ensure that all employees, including those working in isolation, are protected from recognized hazards.

LEO and MIOSHA also provide consultation, compliance assistance, and training resources to help employers develop and maintain effective safety programs tailored to their specific workforce needs.

How Michigan Defines A Lone Worker

Michigan does not formally define “lone worker” in its safety legislation. However, the term typically refers to employees who perform their duties without direct supervision or coworkers nearby. In these situations, the lack of immediate assistance in emergencies increases the importance of robust safety planning.

Lone worker roles in Michigan may include:

• Manufacturing staff working after hours or in isolated areas
• Agricultural and forestry workers operating equipment in remote fields
• Utility line technicians and inspectors working in the field
• Home health aides visiting patients in private residences
• Security guards stationed at large or vacant properties
• Janitorial and maintenance workers on night shifts

These employees require additional layers of protection due to the elevated risks associated with their work environments.

Employing A Lone Worker In Michigan

Employers in Michigan are expected to assess the hazards of lone work environments and take reasonable steps to protect those employees. Even though MIOSHA does not have a dedicated lone worker standard, employers are required under the General Duty Clause to provide a workplace free from serious recognized hazards.

Best practices for employers include:

• Risk Identification and Assessment: Evaluate the tasks and locations where employees may work alone.
• Communication Systems: Require periodic check-ins and equip workers with reliable communication tools.
• Monitoring Technology: Use lone worker safety apps that offer GPS tracking, man-down detection, and panic alerts.
• Emergency Planning: Ensure every lone worker understands what to do in a crisis and has the tools to respond.
• Documentation and Training: Maintain written safety policies, and provide training on job-specific risks and procedures.

By implementing these practices, employers not only protect workers but also demonstrate compliance with MIOSHA and LEO expectations.

Learn How You Can Protect Your Employees With Loneworker.com

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How The Safe Lone Worker App Can Protect Michigan Lone Workers And Employers

The Safe Lone Worker app provides real-time monitoring and emergency support for employees working in isolated conditions. Whether in rural agricultural zones, urban healthcare routes, or industrial facilities, the app delivers essential safety features like timed check-ins, GPS location tracking, man-down alerts, and SOS emergency signaling.

For Michigan employers, this technology offers a practical way to safeguard workers and align with MIOSHA guidelines—while creating an auditable record of compliance and care.

Michigan Lone Worker Policies

Workplace safety in Michigan is governed by MIOSHA, part of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). While there is no standalone rule specifically for lone workers, employers are legally required to assess and address any risks that employees may face when working alone.

For the most accurate and up-to-date safety information, visit MIOSHA and OSHA.gov. This guide is intended as general information and is not a substitute for professional legal advice or official regulatory consultation.