Washington: Employees or Contractors Can Voluntarily Use PPE
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APPLIES TO All Employers with Employees or Contractors in WA |
EFFECTIVE October 1, 2024 |
QUESTIONS? Contact HR On-Call |
Quick Look
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Discussion:
New Washington regulations issued under the Department of Labor & Industries Division of Occupational Safety and Health standards allow employees and independent contractors to voluntarily use personal protective equipment (PPE). The purpose is to permit workers who feel the need to protect themselves when it is not otherwise required by mandatory regulations for workplace safety and health. Employers must still verify that the PPE meets general regulatory requirements for workplace health and safety and does not create a hazard or interfere with security requirements. However, employers also will not be required to purchase, store, maintain, or provide the PPE in cases where they do not already have to do so.
PPE includes, but is not limited to face masks, filtering-facepiece respirators, goggles, helmets, head covers, gloves, rubber slickers, disposable coveralls, and safety shoes. The new regulations apply to the construction, agriculture, and safety and health care industries.
Action Items
- Review the applicable construction regulations here, agriculture regulations here, and safety and health care regulations here.
- Update health and safety procedures.
- Have appropriate personnel trained on the requirements.
Disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance concerning employment-related issues. It is presented with the understanding that ManagEase is not engaged in rendering any legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please contact the services of your own legal adviser. © 2024 ManagEase