Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Labor & Workplace Standards Committee
HB 1837
Brief Description: Restoring the state's ability to address work-related musculoskeletal injuries.
Sponsors: Representatives Bronoske, Ortiz-Self, Berry and Pollet.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Repeals the restriction on the regulation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics.
Hearing Date: 1/18/22
Staff: Lily Smith (786-7175).
Background:

In 2000, the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) adopted specific workplace ergonomics regulations requiring employers to reduce worker exposure to hazards that cause or contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders.


Initiative 841, passed by the voters in 2003, repealed the existing ergonomics regulations, and prohibited L&I from adopting similar regulations or otherwise regulating working practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.


The L&I retains general authority to enforce against ergonomic-related workplace hazards under the general duty clause of the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA).
Summary of Bill:

The restrictions on the specific regulation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics under WISHA are repealed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.