Gavel Insight

Ensuring the health and safety of employees is a critical aspect of operating any business. In Tacoma, Washington, adherence to local, state, and federal health and safety laws is not just best practice—it's a legal requirement. Understanding how these laws function and are enforced can help employers create safer work environments, while helping employees know their rights. Tacoma falls under the jurisdiction of the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA), which operates in concert with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These regulatory bodies establish a framework that employers must follow to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. This article delves into the specific aspects of health and safety laws as they apply to Tacoma, illustrating their impact through real-life examples. WISHA, like OSHA, requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical h...