Are employers legally obligated to place certain safety measures in the workplace?
In Washington, employers are legally obligated to provide a safe work environment. This includes taking any necessary measures to ensure the safety of their employees and reduce the risk of injury or illness. This can include providing adequate safety equipment, implementing safety procedures, and educating employees on safety protocols. In Washington, an employer must also abide by the existing laws surrounding safety in the workplace. This includes the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which states that an employer must "furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm." In addition to the laws already in place, employers in Washington are required to inspect the workplace for potential hazards and take any necessary corrective actions. This can include anything from installing safety guards around hazardous machinery to making sure emergency exits are labeled clearly and that employees know when and how to evacuate in the event of an emergency. Finally, employers in Washington must create and maintain an effective safety program. This should involve conducting regular safety training and inspections, having emergency action plans in place, and providing any necessary safety equipment or protective gear to employees. All of these elements are legally required of employers in order to ensure the safety of their workers.
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