Every year in Washington state, more than 1,600 workers are injured in falls. It’s the leading cause of death in construction—and completely preventable.

That’s the message Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) wants builders to hear as part of the latest L&I bulletin.

Builders fined $375,000 for repeated violations

In the last three months, L&I has fined four construction companies a combined $375,000 for repeated, willful safety violations. These businesses ignored basic fall protection rules—some more than once—putting their workers at serious risk to save time or cut corners, L&I says.

BIAW and ROII know that’s unacceptable.  

BIAW, ROII and L&I offer training and resources to keep workplaces safe

That’s why they work to make safety a top priority on every jobsite, especially when it comes to fall protection. Members lead by example, ensuring workers are trained, protected, and return home safely each day.

As the weather warms and roofing and home projects increase, it’s the perfect time to refresh safety training for builders and employees. L&I is watching and encouraging the public to report unsafe workplaces to them.

Ladder safety and fall protection resources

• L&I’s “Digital Fall Protection Tool” provides tips on how to build a safety plan.
• The National Association of Home Builders has a Ladder Safety video.
• ROII, Washington’s largest and longest-operating retrospective rating safety incentive program, features safety products to help keep you and your workers safe.
• BIAW regularly offers fall protection courses. The next one is Sept. 19 online.

Contact education@biaw.com to request one for your local association.