New Washington State Bill Regulates Musculoskeletal Workplace Safety
Legislators in the state of Washington have passed a bill intended to reduce workers' risk of musculoskeletal disorders. This law repeals state statutes that prevent the Department of Labor & Industries from adopting ergonomics rules intended to protect workers. HFES submitted a letter of support of this bill.
Gov. Jay Inslee (D) signed S.B. 5217 into law. This new legislation will allow Washington L&I to implement and enforce measures aimed at reducing work-related musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. In 2003, voters in the state repealed ergonomics standards that went into effect in 2000. The new law is set to go into effect July 23.