DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — Ford Motor Co. and the United Auto Workers say they have renewed a relationship with a state workplace safety agency that's helped cut on-the-job injuries and absences.

The Detroit-based union and Dearborn automaker said Tuesday that the continuing partnership with the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration — known as MIOSHA — covers 14 Ford sites. The pact includes on-site inspections and briefings involving plant managers, local union leadership and MIOSHA representatives.

Since they started working together in 2002, Ford says worker injury rates have declined by 74 percent in North American plants and an 88 percent drop has been logged in days away from work, restricted duty and job transfer rates.