Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040, [49.17].050.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Currently the requirements for employers to develop formal, written accident prevention plans are found scattered throughout the various sections of the WISHA WACs. The department will be proposing to consolidate the references to these requirements into a central reference list within this one chapter (296-040 WAC) but leave the actual requirements in the referenced chapter. This would simplify the employer's task of identifying the requirements to create an effective prevention program. No other changes or additional requirements are anticipated.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: No other state or federal agencies (other than OSHA) are known that regulate this subject.

Process for Developing New Rule: Interested parties may contact the individual below. The public may also participate by commenting after amendments are proposed by providing written comments or giving oral testimony during the public hearing process.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Ken Lewis, Project Manager, phone (360) 902-4568, FAX (360) 902-5529, Department of Labor and Industries, WISHA Services Division, P.O. Box 44620, Olympia, WA 98504-4620.

June 2, 1998

Gary Moore

Director