L&I Adopts New Fall Protection Standards

10/28/2022

To align with federal standards, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has new fall protection standards going into effect on Nov. 1, 2022. While training and guidance resources remain under development, the department has provided an overview of the background and changes.

Aligning Washington’s fall protection standards with federal requirements

L&I updated its standards after receiving a letter from the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In its letter, OSHA alerted L&I their previous fall protection standards were not as effective as federal standards. Under federal law, Washington’s standards must meet or exceed the standards set forth by OSHA.

Major changes

L&I has provided a quick reference guide with major changes indicated. Among other things, the updated standards:

Require fall protection when doing roofing work at six feet or higher on a low-pitch roof, instead of the previous 10-foot threshold;
Change the threshold height from 10 feet to six feet when constructing a leading edge;
Add the option of a standard guardrail system as a form of fall protection on low-pitched roofs;
Provide an option to use a safety watch system if appropriate; and
Include a clarifying statement noting when rules require fall protection at four feet or more.

Updated safety training expected soon

Bob White, ROII Safety Services Director, works closely with L&I and will share their updated training materials when they are available. ROII participants already receive Weekly Safety Topic emails. To join the list, contact ROII Safety Services Director Bob White at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com.

Safer Cargo Transport: Why TorkStrap Could Be a Smart Addition

09/30/2025

On any job site, safe transport of tools, equipment, and materials is just as important as what happens inside the work zone. Too often, accidents happen because cargo wasn’t properly secured.

Many of us have relied on bungee cords and ratchet straps for years. They get the job done—most of the time. But as you know, they also come with their own risks: bungees can snap back with dangerous force, causing severe injury, and ratchets can loosen over time or crush cargo if over-tightened. That’s where newer options like the TorkStrap come in.

Roof Safety Matters: Preparing for Fall Debris and Clean-Up

09/05/2025

Fall is just around the corner, and with it comes wet leaves, pine needles, moss, and other debris piling up on rooftops. For ROII participants, roof clean-up is a necessary task this time of year—but it can also be one of the most hazardous.

Slips and falls remain one of the leading causes of injuries in construction. On metal roofs, the combination of rain and seasonal debris can quickly create unsafe conditions, even for experienced workers.

About