When it comes to the frequency of workplace safety inspections in the U.S., Michigan stacks up pretty well. But it's another story when it comes to imposing fines on contractors who break the law.

According to a new report by the AFL-CIO, using 1997-98 numbers, it would take 34 years for the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration to inspect every job site in Michigan - which is fourth best in the nation. That compares to 19 years for Oregon (No. 1) and 259 years for Louisiana (No. 50).

But in 1997 Michigan ranked 48th when it came to imposing serious citations on employers "for conditions creating a substantial probability of death or physical harm to workers," according to the AFL-CIO. Michigan's average fine for citations in that category was $393, compared to No. 1 Montana, at $1,343.

That low level of fines in 1997 contrasted to the 174 worker deaths in Michigan - 12th highest in the nation.

In the eight worst states for jobsite safety inspections (Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Texas), it would take more than 150 years for OSHA to pay a single visit to each workplace. All but Oklahoma are right-to-work states.

All of the top ten states in terms of frequency of safety inspections are governed by state-administered OSHA programs.