Author: Allison Harper
Is your IME Appointment Notice Compliant for the Requirements Provided for Washington Self-Insured Employers?
In recent years, the Department of Labor and Industries has increased its scrutiny of how self-insured employers schedule and send notice for Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs). Failure to follow the rules can result in cancellation of examinations, penalties, and delayed claim processing. RCW 51.36.070 outlines when the self-insured employer may…
Washington Hearing Loss Claims – Refresh Your Knowledge!
In Washington, hearing loss claims timeframes for filing are governed under RCW 51.28.055. If there is reported hearing loss resulting from a sudden single event, this is considered conductive hearing loss, which is distinguished from an occupational disease claim. For an injury of this nature and to be considered timely,…
Washington State Approves Spinal Cord Stimulation for Certain Pain Conditions
On June 14, 2024, there was a final adoption of new guidelines for spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Spinal cord stimulation is a treatment for chronic pain involving the insertion of electrodes into the epidural space near the spinal cord that are connected to an internal or external electrical pulse generator….
New Process Safety Management for Refineries in Washington Coming in 2024
The Department of Labor and Industries has updated workplace safety rules targeted at preventing catastrophic events at petroleum refineries as defined in WAC Chapter 296-67 (Part B.) The potential for release of highly hazardous chemicals exists any time toxic, reactive, or flammable liquids and gases are not properly controlled. The…
Updated Heat Protections Rules in Washington Implemented Year-Round Focusing on Shade, Cool-Down Rest Periods and Monitoring of Workers.
On July 17, 2023, new changes went into effect under WAC 296-62-095 and WAC 296-307-097 expanding the existing requirements relating to outdoor heat exposure. These changes are targeted at prevention of heat-related illness and reduction of traumatic injuries for outdoor workers associated with heat exposure. The new rules are implemented…
