Each fall, L&I announces its proposed rates for the upcoming year. The average rates for 2020 are down slightly with a decrease of 0.8%. It’s good news, but it’s important to understand what that really means; overall, it’s only about…
Cold Stress Working under cold conditions can lead to injuries or health effects, which are collectively known as cold stress. Construction workers may experience cold stress when working: Outdoors on a cold day. In a refrigerated room. In an…
Minimum Wage for 2020 We review the state-wide minimum wage as well as the cities with higher minimum wages such as Seattle and SeaTac. Washington state minimum wage for 2020 The state-wide minimum wage takes the biggest overall jump,…
In many worksite situations, workers are at risk for engulfment hazards. Engulfment results when a worker is buried by materials such as soil, sand, gravel, sawdust, seed, grain or flour. Engulfment can also include liquid such as water or a…
Do you keep a safety bulletin board? The Washington Administrative Code requires every fixed workplace (establishment) that has eight or more employees to install and maintain a safety bulletin board. Post information which can include the following:…
Winter is on its way. That can mean fog, rain, ice, snow, slippery roads, and poor visibility. Winter conditions present more challenges for pedestrians, drivers, and vehicle operators. There are some simple precautions you can take to minimize the…
Closed. Final and binding. Or is it?!? Claim closure is always our goal, but did you know that claims can be reopened? It’s true that a claim can be reopened within 7 years of the date the claim was…
Stay Safe at All Hours When you find yourself alone in the workplace because you: work early or late hours, work at mobile remote sites, provide services on the go, You must keep yourself safe by following your own…
Making Light-Duty Really Work for Everyone We wrote last week about the incredible benefits of light-duty work in Washington state, but there are some challenges. First off, the clock is ticking, so it’s important to coordinate a light-duty…
Basic Safety Rules Think of these as your nine commandments. The most complex safety topics boil down to these simple safety rules. Always wear your seatbelt when in a vehicle or heavy equipment. Seatbelts are critical to preventing serious…