Michigan Becomes First State Labor Department Named NIOSH Affiliate
The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity in Michigan earns recognition for integrating mental health into workplace safety standards.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Mar 10, 2026
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has been designated as a Total Worker Health (TWH) Affiliate by NIOSH. The designation makes Michigan the first state in the country to have its labor department receive this status.
The affiliation recognizes the state’s Healthy Work Healthy Mind initiative, a program that integrates mental health into traditional workplace safety and health strategies. According to NIOSH, the TWH approach is defined as policies, programs and practices that integrate protection from work-related safety and health hazards with promotion of injury and illness prevention efforts to advance worker well-being.
"Supporting both physical and mental health for employees is essential to strong families, resilient businesses and a competitive economy," LEO Director Susan Corbin said.
The initiative aims to help employers address occupational stress, trauma and mental health challenges as part of organizational performance. By treating mental health as a core component of worker safety, the department seeks to improve retention and engagement across various industries.
A central element of the state’s efforts is the Learn, Educate, Act, Deploy, Study (LEADS) workplace mental health consultation pilot. Developed in collaboration with the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce and several universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, the pilot provides research-informed strategies to help leadership reduce workplace risks and support employee resilience.
"Work has a direct impact on people’s health and well-being," said Sean Egan, LEO deputy director of labor. "Being a NIOSH Total Worker Health Affiliate ensures Michigan’s approach is evidence-based, people-centered and designed to strengthen both workers and businesses."
In addition to the LEADS pilot, the state provides monthly webinars and statewide reports to connect employers with best practices for reducing workplace stress. The program aligns with broader national trends focused on the evolution of occupational health to include psychological safety alongside physical hazard mitigation.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is assistant editor of OHSOnline.com.