The Worker Right-To-Know Act was passed by the Washington State legislature in 1984. It is fairly similar to the federal and state Worker Protection Standard (WSP), but has additional requirements. It requires employers to train and inform their employees about hazardous chemicals in the workplace. The act does not apply to family-operated vineyards or businesses that do not rely on hired workers. The following statement about the law was provided by the Department of Labor and Industries:
Grape growers now join all employers statewide in warning the workers about hazardous chemicals. This warning takes the form of information and training. Operators must develop and maintain a written program that explains how they inform and train their employees about the hazardous chemicals they are likely to be exposed to.
“Information” means telling workers about your chemical labels and safety data sheets (SDS). SDS are obtained from chemical manufacturers and dealers and kept on file where workers can see them. All workers must be told where hazardous chemicals, such as pesticides, are being used.
“Training” must be given to workers who are using the chemicals or who might be exposed to them. For example, a person who enters a field that has been treated during the current growing season is considered to be exposed and therefore must be given the training.
This training includes:
- How to tell if the chemical is present (what it looks like, what it smells like).
- What the physical and health hazards are (symptoms or effects of overexposure).
- How workers can protect themselves (the SDS or label should explain the appropriate protection, such as gloves or a face mask).
- Good work practices (no eating or smoking around chemicals; wash thoroughly after leaving the area).
- Emergency procedures (whom to call and what to do if someone is overexposed).
- Where to find the SDS (make available to workers).
- How to obtain more information on the chemical and how to use that information.
Pesticide dealers must give farmers SDS with the initial purchase of all restricted-use pesticides. Pesticide applicators who sell pesticides must also provide SDS.
The Department of Labor and Industries will answer your questions about this program. For information on the program, visit the L&I’s Right to Know webpage.