Michigan bill would protect workers who use their own PPE
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A Michigan lawmaker introduced a bill Thursday to prohibit employers from taking actions against employees for using their own personal protective equipment at the workplace.
H.B. 6187, introduced by Democratic Rep. Yousef Rabhi, would prohibit employers from taking adverse actions against workers who use their own PPE because their employer doesn’t provide such equipment or provides equipment that offers less protection than the workers’ own. The bill would also allow employees to advocate in the workplace or publicly for the employer to provide additional PPE without fear of retribution.
The legislation would allow workers who believe their employer retaliated against them for wearing their own PPE or advocating for additional PPE to bring a civil action against their employer for injunctive relief and damages, with damages of not less than $5,000 awarded to workers who prevail in their actions.
The bill notes that employers who provide PPE that meets or exceeds applicable federal and state standards cannot be held liable for injuries or illnesses sustained by workers who choose to use their own equipment, but the legislation does not limit the workers’ right to workers compensation.
More insurance and workers compensation news on the coronavirus crisis here.
