Author: McKenzie Brooks
From Rigging to Raising: Washington L&I’s New Crane Rules
On August 5, 2025, the Department of Labor & Industries Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) filed a Permanent Rulemaking (CR-103) related to cranes, rigging, and personnel lifting. This rulemaking became effective on September 5, 2025, and seeks to provide clarity on the Department of Labor & Industries’ interpretation…
In Washington, Can a Worker Successfully Pursue an Occupational Disease Condition under an Open Industrial Injury Claim?
When a claim has been accepted, and compensation has been paid, the self-insurer is required to send the Department the SIF-2, the claim allowance request form, the SIF-5, and an explanation and documentation used to determine the date of manifestation for occupational disease claims. At that point, the Department will…
Washington House Bill 1927 Passed to Adjust Time-Loss Eligibility for Injured Workers
Washington State Governor Jay Inslee signed into law House Bill 1927 which makes it easier for injured workers to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits for the first few days following their injury. This change took effect on June 6, 2024 and impacts all claims with dates of injury or manifestation…
Substitute House Bill Passed to Address Surgical Smoke Hazards in Washington
Governor Jay Inslee signed into law Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1779 to address surgical smoke hazards in hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers in hopes to establish workplace safety and health requirements pertaining to procedures producing hazardous smoke. RCW 49.17.500 and RCW 49.17.505 took effect on January 1, 2024. As such,…
New Notice Requirement for Independent Medical Examinations in Washington Effective July 23, 2023.
Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1068 was adopted into law by the legislature effective July 23, 2023. This legislation amends RCW 51.36.070, giving workers the right to record independent medical examinations ordered under that section, RCW 51.32.110 or by the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals. A worker can record the audio,…
When to request a segregation order on a newly contended condition in Washington
The Department of Labor and Industries recently addressed when it believes a request for a segregation order is appropriate on newly contended conditions. A condition is “contended” if it is diagnosed and coverage is being sought due to a causal relationship. If the worker or provider is contending that a…
