Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Labor & Workforce Development Committee |
HB 2509
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Promoting workplace safety and health by enacting the blueprint for safety program.
Sponsors: Representatives Chandler, Bailey and Pearson.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/25/12
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).
Background:
The Department of Labor and Industries (Department) administers and enforces the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA). The Department, through the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), adopts safety and health standards, provides consultation and advice to employers, and conducts inspections and investigations.
Workers' compensation premiums paid by an employer are determined, in part, by the employer's experience rating, which is based on the costs of claims of the employer's workers.
The Department has created a Blueprint for Safety series within DOSH to change the perspective of management and labor leaders in an organization and give them a vision of why their leadership in their safety and health program is an essential element for long-term success. About 12 employers currently participate in the series.
Summary of Bill:
The Blueprint for Safety program is enacted. The goal of the program is to improve safety for employees and lower employer costs by assisting employers for which the traditional safety and health model has not been effective. The Department must design the program to promote management and labor leadership in safety and health as essential for long-term success. Criteria for participation may include, but are not limited to:
History with the Department indicating a less than optimal leadership commitment to safety and health;
Rising experience modification factor;
Recent catastrophic workplace injury;
Change in the employer's safety management; and
Request by the employer to participate.
The Department must offer the program in each of the Department's regions and must provide information to employers who likely meet the criteria. Participation in the program is voluntary.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 19, 2012.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.