Like many other states, Washington has an effective and comprehensive system of occupational safety and health regulations that applies to all local, state, and private-sector employees. This system operates under the Washington State Plan, commonly referred to as the Official State Plan, which is approved and monitored by Federal OSHA.
Washington’s State Plan is administered by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) through the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). While the plan incorporates many Federal OSHA standards, it also includes state-specific rules and requirements that reflect local priorities and workplace conditions, making it more tailored than the federal standards alone.
These unique Washington DOSH regulations address specific hazards and operational needs within the state, providing additional layers of protection for workers in industries such as construction, agriculture, healthcare, and general industry.
Let me know if you’d like a detailed list of Washington’s state-specific standards or training requirements under the Washington State Plan.
The Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), under the authority of the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I), is responsible for implementing the Washington State Plan. This plan is OSHA-approved and applies to all public sector employees—including state and local government workers—as well as most private sector employees in Washington.
While DOSH incorporates the majority of Federal OSHA Standards, it also enforces state-specific regulations that reflect Washington’s unique workplace environments and safety concerns.
