Washington Accident Prevention Program (APP)
Washington requires every employer to develop and implement a written Accident Prevention Program (APP). The requirements are codified in WAC 296-155-110 for construction and WAC 296-800-140 for general industry.
Required Elements
Safety Orientation
All employees must receive safety orientation before beginning work. Must cover the employer's safety program, hazards specific to the worksite, and emergency procedures.
Accident Prevention Program
A written program describing the employer's safety and health policies, responsibilities, and procedures. Must be available to all employees.
Safety Meetings
Regular safety meetings are required. Construction employers must hold weekly crew safety meetings.
First Aid
Trained first aid providers and first aid supplies must be available at every worksite. Response times determine whether an on-site provider is required.
Hazard Assessment
Employers must identify and evaluate workplace hazards. Includes regular inspections and hazard reporting systems.
Accident Investigation
All workplace accidents and near-misses must be investigated. Written reports are required for recordable incidents.
Safety Committee or Meetings
Employers with 11+ employees must establish a safety committee that meets at least quarterly. Smaller employers may use regular safety meetings instead.
Training
Employees must be trained on hazards specific to their job, safe work practices, and emergency procedures. Training must be documented.
Enforcement and Penalties
$1,000-7,000
Serious Violation
Per violation where death or serious injury is probable
Up to $70,000
Willful or Repeat
Intentional disregard for safety requirements
Up to $7,000/day
Failure to Correct
Per day for each uncorrected violation after the abatement date
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Washington employer need an APP?
Yes. RCW 49.17.060 requires every employer to furnish a safe workplace, and WAC 296-800-14005 requires a written accident prevention program for all employers.
What is the difference between construction and general industry APPs?
Construction APPs fall under WAC 296-155-110 and require additional elements like weekly safety meetings and site-specific hazard assessments. General industry APPs follow WAC 296-800-140.
How often must safety meetings be held?
Construction: weekly crew safety meetings. General industry: regular meetings as determined by the safety committee, but at least quarterly for the committee itself.
Do I need a safety committee?
Employers with 11 or more employees must establish a safety committee. Employers with 10 or fewer may use regular safety meetings as an alternative.
What triggers an L&I inspection?
Complaints, referrals, fatalities, hospitalizations, and programmed inspections in high-hazard industries. L&I also conducts follow-up inspections on previous violations.