WISHA Compliance

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Washington WISHA standards refer to the set of occupational safety and health standards adopted by the state of Washington. WISHA stands for the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act, which was enacted in 1973 and created the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) to oversee workplace safety and health regulations in the state.

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The WISHA rules require that employers provide first aid training and supplies to employees who are reasonably expected to provide emergency medical care as part of their job duties. The training must cover basic first aid, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and must be conducted by an instructor certified by a recognized organization like the Health Safety Institute.

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Additionally, certain industries, such as construction, have specific requirements for first aid and CPR training. For example, the construction industry has a specific rule that requires all employees on a job site to have a valid first aid card or certificate issued by an organization approved by the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).

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Employers should consult the WISHA regulations to ensure they are in compliance with the specific first aid and CPR training requirements for their industry and workplace.

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The following are some of the key WISHA safety standards that employers in Washington are required to comply with:
 

1. First Aid Standard: provide first aid training and supplies to employees who are reasonably expected to provide emergency medical care as part of their job duties. The training must cover basic first aid, including CPR.
    

2. Hazard Communication Standard: This standard requires employers to provide information about hazardous chemicals used in the workplace and to train employees on how to handle these chemicals safely.
    

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standard: This standard requires employers to assess workplace hazards and provide employees with appropriate PPE to protect against those hazards.
    

4. Respiratory Protection Standard: This standard requires employers to develop and implement a respiratory protection program when employees are exposed to airborne contaminants.
    

5. Bloodborne Pathogens Standard: This standard requires employers to protect employees who may be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials while performing their job duties.
    

6. Lockout/Tagout Standard: This standard requires employers to implement procedures to control hazardous energy sources during servicing and maintenance of machines and equipment.
    

7. Fall Protection Standard: This standard requires employers to provide fall protection equipment and training to employees who work at heights.
    

8. Confined Space Standard: This standard requires employers to identify and control hazards associated with working in confined spaces and to implement a confined space entry program.
    

These are just a few of the many WISHA safety standards that apply to workplaces in Washington state. Employers should consult the WISHA regulations to ensure they are in compliance with all applicable standards.

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