Working hard to Protect, Promote & Educate our Profession
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To: LARA Licensees & Stakeholders
LANSING, MICH. – As part of the state's continued efforts to slow the increasing spread of COVID-19, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) yesterday announced the statewide rollout of the COVID-19 exposure notification app MI COVID Alert.
The anonymous, no cost and voluntary app, piloted in Ingham County and on the campus of Michigan State University last month, lets users know whether they may have recently been exposed to COVID-19. Users can confidentially submit a positive test result into the app and alert others in recent proximity that they may have also been exposed to the virus.
"COVID cases and deaths are now rising fast," said Robert Gordon, director of MDHHS. "Using MI COVID Alert on your cell phone is a simple, safe step that everyone can take to protect themselves and their loved ones. It's free, it's easy, and it protects your privacy."
Every Michigander is encouraged to download MI COVID Alert. Research from Oxford University found a potential to reduce infections and deaths, even if just 15% of a population uses an exposure notification app like MI COVID Alert. In the initial weeks of the MSU-Ingham County pilot alone, 46,704 people downloaded the app. The number is the equivalent of approximately 23% of Ingham County residents ages 18- to 64-years-old and nearly 16% of the total Ingham County population.
"This app has the potential to provide the kind of early exposure notification that is critical to preventing the spread of the virus," said Michigan State University Executive Vice President for Health Sciences, Dr. Norman J. Beauchamp Jr. "In addition to wearing a mask, social distancing and getting tested, downloading the app is one of the most important steps we can take to help keep our communities safe."
When a person tests positive for COVID-19, they receive a randomly generated PIN from the local health department or State of Michigan case investigators that allows them to share their test results anonymously on the app. MI COVID Alert uses randomly generated phone codes and low energy Bluetooth technology instead of GPS location to protect privacy while looking back in time to determine close contact with other phones that have the app. If someone was in close contact with another person who submitted a positive COVID-19 test result, the close contact will receive a push notification once the positive test result is entered into the system. A notification means the app user was possibly within six feet for at least 15 minutes of someone who tested positive. Michigan worked with Apple and Google to make MI COVID Alert compatible with similar apps in other states. The app works in conjunction with traditional contact tracing, mask-wearing, hand washing and social distancing, but is not a replacement for these precautions or participation in contact tracing.
People who are exposed to COVID-19 should get tested and consider quarantining, including watching for symptoms for 14 days from the date of possible exposure. Individuals in need of testing may visit the COVID-19 website to find a testing location near them. They may also contact the Michigan COVID-19 hotline by calling 888-535-6136 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or dialing 2-1-1 on their mobile phone to locate and schedule an appointment at a nearby, off-campus testing location.
The exposure notification feature included in recent iOS and Android operating system updates only works with a companion app like MI COVID Alert. The app is available in the Apple and Google app stores.
Other states, including Virginia, Arizona, New York, Alabama and New Jersey, recently launched similar exposure notifications apps statewide. Additional states have apps in development.
Information around the COVID-19 outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
Cost-Effective Solutions for Mid-Pandemic Workplace Controversies
Tuesday, November 17, 2020 (12:00 PM CT)
60 minutes | Complimentary | Advance registration required
In this webinar, we will identify seven types of challenges and recurring problems that employers face today, and we will discuss cost-effective solutions your organization can implement to reduce risk while preparing for year-end and for 2021. We'll offer practical tips and resources, and will answer questions at the end of this webinar.
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HEPA FIlter Rebates
Consumers Energy is offering HEPA Filter rebates through our Business Instant Discount Program to help with State of Michigan funded HVAC Assistance Program for K-12 Schools.
See Michigan.gov program details here: https://www.michigan.gov/climateandenergy/0,4580,7-364-85453_85455_85516_85523-539583--,00.html
Current incentive available up to $80 per qualifying filter at participating distributors. For a list of participating distributors and current instant rebates visit consumersenergy.com/instantdiscount
With temperatures dropping and Daylight Savings Time to turn back the clocks on Nov. 1, Michiganders are encouraged to take action in preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.
To bring more attention to a potentially life-threatening issue, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared Oct. 26 – Nov. 1, 2020 as Carbon Monoxide Safety Awareness Week.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide overexposure can include headache, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea and confusion. High levels of carbon monoxide can cause death within minutes.
If you suspect you may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, or your detector alarm sounds an alert, immediately get to fresh air by going outside, then call 911.
"Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur almost anywhere and I hope Michiganders take this time to prepare and prevent this life-threatening issue," said Governor Whitmer. "Awareness about carbon monoxide safety is a top priority, and Michiganders are encouraged to learn about this poisonous gas and ensure homes and appliances are maintained to protect themselves and loved ones against possible poisoning."
"To prepare for winter weather, Michiganders should make sure their heat sources and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order," said Orlene Hawks, director of the Dept. of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. "Being aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and having a working carbon monoxide alarm is essential to keeping your family safe."
Every year, about 140 people are hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning in Michigan. Across the United States, thousands are poisoned and at least 430 people die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.
In 2017, the latest year data is available from the MDHHS Michigan Environmental Public Health Tracking Program (MiTracking), 126 people were hospitalized.
"Working carbon monoxide detectors save lives," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer. "Only 1 in 8 families in the United States have a functioning carbon monoxide detector. Michigan residents should install a detector today to protect our loved ones from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and poisonous gas known as the 'Invisible Killer; it requires an electronic sensor to detect."
Hospitalizations for carbon monoxide poisoning are preventable so long as people are prepared.
To protect yourself and your family from carbon monoxide, MDHHS recommends following these safety tips:
·Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors. Detectors on every level of your home, including the basement, are strongly recommended. Detectors can be purchased at most hardware and big box stores. Daylight Savings Time is a good time each year to replace the batteries in your detector and push the "Test" button to be sure it's working properly. Replace your detector every five years or according to manufacturer's instructions. Use a battery-powered detector where you have fuel burning devices but no electric outlets, such as in tents, cabins, RVs and boats with enclosed cabins.
· Have your furnace or wood-burning stove inspected annually. Hire a professional to make sure it is functionally sound and vents properly outside the home.
· Never run a gasoline or propane heater or a grill (gas or charcoal) inside your home or in an unventilated garage. Any heating system that burns fuel produces carbon monoxide.
· Generators should be run at a safe distance (at least 20 feet) from the home. Never run a generator in the home or garage or right next to windows or doors.
Never run a car in an enclosed space. If a vehicle is running, you must have a door open to the outside.
In addition, Michiganders are reminded to install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor in your home, push the button to test them regularly, change all alarm batteries every 6 months, and replace alarms after 10 years.
Michigan K-12 Public School HVAC Assistance Program
Michigan licensed HVAC contractors are encouraged to be apply to the Michigan K-12 Public School HVAC Assistance Program (link) for assisting schools with recommendations to reduce infectious aerosol transmission via the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems. Participating HVAC contractors complete a program provided onsite HVAC inspection checklist, at pre-approved K-12 public school buildings, to generate a recommendation report with cost estimates for implementation.
The maximum award is $15,000 per applicant, with a maximum payment of $1,500 per completed checklist report. Awards will be given on a first come, first served basis until funding is depleted. Michigan licensed HVAC contractors can apply by completing a brief online application (link).
Additional information is available on the Michigan K-12 Public School HVAC Assistance Program website (link). Questions can be directed to David Herb, EGLE Energy Services at HerbD@michigan.gov.
Sent on behalf of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
As the fall and flu seasons begin, the number of positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Michigan have recently trended upward, prompting a call from public health officials to increase vigilance and preventative measures. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), hospitals, and local health officials are calling on all residents to take simple steps to prevent a surge in COVID-19 cases that could overwhelm the hospital systems.
"Michiganders did a great job of bringing our cases down after a surge in the spring," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. "Basic things like wearing masks, maintaining a physical distance from others and washing hands worked. Yet as the colder months and flu season have arrived, we now see a concerning jump in our cases – a trend we can reverse if we all take this seriously and follow best practices to slow the spread of COVID-19."
The recent increase in cases, along with people gathering indoors more frequently due to cooler weather, creates a risk of greater community spread. To protect against the risk of a devastating surge in cases and its impact on Michiganders, MDHHS has issued additional Emergency Orders to clarify gathering definitions, capacity restrictions, mask requirements and worker protections. This recent increase should remind us all to refocus on preventing the spread of COVID-19.
In addition to rising cases across the state, more tests are coming back positive and more residents are being hospitalized compared to previous weeks. Currently, Michigan has 89 daily cases per million people, 3.6 percent of tests are positive and there are 698 COVID-19 hospitalizations. This is compared to the same point last week when the following numbers were reported: 81.6 daily cases per million people, 3.4 percent positivity and 586 hospitalizations.
Wearing masks, practicing social distancing, washing hands, and participating in contact tracing with public health officials are proven, effective ways to slow the spread of this virus.
As Michigan works to safely reopen, it is important to remember that does not mean that the virus is gone, or the risk of infection is less. Scientists and doctors agree that masks and face coverings can help to reduce the spread by about 70 percent. And further, not feeling ill is not a sign that you are not infected – the reality is that about 40 percent of people who have COVID-19 may be asymptomatic and capable of spreading the virus to others. Although many people getting infected with COVID-19 this fall are not needing to be hospitalized, it still important that we wear masks and socially distance to prevent people who will have severe disease from getting infected.
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
MIACCA's Efforts on Bill, Which Would Allow Contractors Reasonable Work Experience Credit, Passes Senate and Heads to the House
SB 827 was passed by Senate roll call on September 30th with 38 yeas and 0 nays It was then referred to the House Regulatory Reform Committee.
This bill is important to the HVAC industry as it will continue the long standing safety practice of having employers attest to an applicant's mechanical work experience; and provide for a reasonable work experience credit for those who goes to school to learn a skilled trade and successfully completes a recognized HVAC trade school, community college, or university program.
MIACCA encourages you to reach out to to these House Regulatory Reform Committee members of this committee in your district and encourage them to introduce the bill to the House of Representatives:
Michael Webber (R) Committee Chair, 45th District
Ryan Berman (R) Majority Vice-Chair, 39th District
Kathy Crawford (R), 38th District
Diana Farrington (R), 30 District
Ben Frederick (R), 85th District
Michele Hoitenga (R), 102nd District
Graham Filler (R), 93rd District
Matt Hall (R), 63rd District
Pauline Wendzel (R), 79th District
John Chirkun (D) Minority Vice-Chair, 22nd District
Frank Liberati (D), 13rd District
Sara Cambensy (D), 109th District
Jewell Jones (D), 11st District
Alex Garza (D), 12nd District
Cynthia Neeley (D), 34th District
Molly Wingrove, Committee Clerk 5173735024
MIACCA would like to thank it's members, Roger Mullennix of Williams Distributing, Ken Misiewicz, of Pleune Service Company, Doug Young of Behler-Young,, Glenn VerMurlen, Michigan Building & Mechanical Inc and Phil Forner of Allendale Heating Company for their efforts in reaching out to Senators to get this in front of the Senate Regulatory Reform Committee.
A special thanks to Senator Roger Victory and his staff for introducing the bill and their efforts in getting this passed and to Senator Aric Nesbitt for getting the bill heard before the committee.
Another way MIACCA is working for you. We will continue to keep you posted on the progress.
On Thursday, September 17th, MIACCA submitted these comments on behalf of our members:
The Michigan Air Conditioning Contractors Association (MIACCA), would like to submit the following public comments in regards to Part 5. Residential Code (ORR# 2019-118 LR) : MIACCA requests that the Bureau to remove, in its entirety, the Section R105.2(c)(xi) exemption which states (xi) When changing or relocating a gas meter or regulator, a permit is not required when installing gas piping which shall be limited to 10 feet (3 005 mm) in length and not more than 6 fittings.
MIACCA requests that as an alternative to removing Section R105.2(c)(xi) entirely, that the Bureau considers replacing Section R105.2(c)(xi) with the proposed following language: (xi) When changing or relocating a gas meter or regulator, a permit is not required when installing gas piping OUTDOORS which shall be limited to 10 feet (3.005 mm) in length and not more than 6 fittings.
Therefore, MIACCA respectfully requests that Section R105.2(c)(xi) be either removed in its entirety and alternatively replaced with the proposed language, suggested in the above paragraph, and requiring mechanical permits, gas leak testing and mechanical inspections by the third party authority having jurisdiction when gas meters are relocated in residences that includes gas piping after the meter being redone and or installed. If mechanical permits are required for other gas piping done in a residence, then so should the gas piping done when relocating a gas meter.
We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this and hope that you will strongly consider our suggestions, as we believe it is to the benefit of the profession and our members.
Webinar: Leading Forward - Workplace Controversies
When? Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. CST
What? In this webinar, we will address key issues such as returning to work after a pandemic-related shutdown or slow down; adjusting to the shift to remote work; workplace violence and weapons issues; and how to avoid unexpected risks of discrimination claims as your organization navigates the impact of social justice issues and the pandemic on its workforce and customers. We will provide practical tips you can use today to lead from the front and reduce risk.
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