The Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, and authorizes the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) to inspect and investigate workplaces for compliance with safety and health standards.  L&I has adopted general health and safety standards, pursuant to WISHA, that apply to most industries, and has adopted safety standards that apply only to specific industries.
 
If the Director of L&I believes that an employer has committed a violation following an inspection or investigation, the Director must, with reasonable promptness, issue a citation to the employer.  A citation may not be issued more than six months following the inspection or investigation where the violation was revealed.  A citation must be in writing, describe the nature of the violation, and specify a reasonable time for abating the violation. 

Depending on the violation, L&I may impose civil penalties.  Civil penalties may be adjusted based on the employer's inspection history, the size of the workforce, and other factors.  The Director must impose penalties for violations that are serious or willful.  The minimum civil penalty for a serious violation is $100.  Maximum penalties are $7,000, or $70,000 for willful or repeated violations.  The maximum penalties will be adjusted annually in accordance with federal penalty levels.

Until June 30, 2026, L&I must make a good faith effort to notify an employer or owner within 10 working days if a hazard that could cause injury to a worker was immediately identified during an inspection at a residential construction worksite.

By December 1, 2026, L&I must report to Legislature the number and percent of inspections when timely notice was not given to the owner or employer, and the reasons why L&I did not or could not comply.