The City of Benton Harbor has successfully abated all violations resulting from the recent Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) inspections

Benton Harbor, MI, October 22, 2013: The City of Benton Harbor has successfully abated all violations resulting from the recent Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) inspections; the inspections were prompted when a firefighter became injured during firefighting operations on March 14, 2013. MIOSHA initially assessed penalties of $7,500.00 for safety violations and $2,500.00 for health violations. However, a settlement agreement was reached which required the city to pay $5,000.00 in penalties and make all necessary corrections. To abate the violations, Benton Harbor has… • Developed new policies, procedures and operating guidelines • Performed mandatory and required training • Removed outdated equipment from service and replacing with new • Performed required servicing and maintenance of equipment • Sent all employees, with firefighting responsibilities, to receive the proper medical exam required for firefighters A letter from MIOSHA dated October 11, 2013 confirms that Benton Harbor has satisfactorily abated all violations, has no outstanding penalties and that the investigation is officially closed. “The effort our team put forth in making these necessary improvements emphasizes our commitment to safety. We will continue to build on what we have accomplished as we continue to strive for excellence moving forward” Jeremy Connell.