Get Prepared – Ergonomics Safety & Health Rulemaking Law Takes Effect in 2026

Last year, the state legislature passed ESSB 5217, now referred to by Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) as Ergonomics Safety and Health Rulemaking. The new law allows L&I to adopt rules to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in industries or risk classes that see workers’ compensation claims for WMSDs at least 2 times the overall state rate. While the first rule cannot take effect until July 1, 2026, we encourage employers to follow this issue closely and make preparations for potential new regulations that will impact your business practices and operations.

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