SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1717

BYHouse Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Cole, R. King, Fisher, Winsley, Leonard, Anderson, Ebersole, Dellwo, Miller, Allen, Wang, Sayan, Nelson, Vekich, Lux and Unsoeld)

Requiring employers to maintain workplace safety for twenty-four hour operations.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):

Senate Staff:Dave Cheal (786-7516)

AS OF FEBRUARY 24, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Many convenience stores and other businesses remain open twenty-four hours per day.  Special safety precautions for employees working night shifts are not required by state law.

SUMMARY:

Employers in the grocery store or gas station business who remain open 24 hours per day are required to equip the workplace with sound alarm equipment that signals law enforcement personnel and provides training for employees in robbery and violence prevention.

Franchisors who require the franchisee to remain open 24 hours per day are required to pay any costs associated with safety compliance.

The chapter will be implemented and enforced under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act.  Employers are required to make and keep records regarding compliance activities.

If an employer refuses to provide the employee training required by the act, the employer is liable to the affected employee for a civil penalty of $100 and for attorneys' fees and costs.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 1, 1988