Walking/working surfaces - Washington

Most of Washington’s requirements for walking/working surfaces are identical to the federal requirements; however, the state adds further requirements. A summary of the additional requirements includes the following:

• Construction work is not considered a permanent place of employment.
• In wet processes, provide appropriate waterproof footwear.
• Provide adequate drainage in all working areas such as yards, basements, and garages.
• Employers must sweep and clean the workplace in a way that minimizes dust, and when practical clean after hours to minimize employee exposure to dust.
• Prohibit overloading roofs and floors of any building or other structure with more weight than is approved by the building official.
• Make sure that structures are designed, constructed, and maintained to provide a safety factor of 4 times the imposed maximum strain.
• Post approved load limits (weight limits) for floors used for mercantile, business, industrial or storage purposes in an obvious place.
• Do not accumulate materials in storage areas such that they create tripping, fire, or explosion hazards.
• Design, construct, and maintain all structures as to provide a safety factor of 4 times the imposed maximum strain.
• If a structure bows, cracks, or otherwise indicates excessive strain, take action to ensure it is safe.
• Ensure that the floors are of substantial construction. Keep them in good repair and free from accumulations of debris.
• Use a nonslip coating when polishing floors.
• Ensure that building, ramp, dock, trestle, and other structure flooring that supports moving or vibrating equipment is not less than 2 1/2 inch material. However, you may use 2-inch material where flooring is covered by steel floor plates.

To ensure that you are in compliance with these requirements, click on the following links to view the state and federal regulations regarding walking/working surfaces: