The bill aims to improve construction crane safety in Washington State following a tragic incident in Seattle. It introduces a comprehensive permitting process that requires complete applications, safety conferences, and inspections conducted by certified crane inspectors for the assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of tower cranes. Key provisions include the establishment of penalties for non-compliance, such as the suspension or revocation of permits if safety standards are not adhered to. The bill also adds definitions related to crane operations and outlines the responsibilities of prime contractors in maintaining permits, ensuring that tower cranes are inspected before and after critical operations.

Additionally, the bill amends existing labor and safety regulations, mandating the Department of Labor and Industries to implement rules that enforce safety protocols during crane operations. It requires prime contractors to acknowledge safety orders and manufacturer instructions, appoint a qualified technical representative, and designate an assembly/disassembly director. The legislation also establishes a framework for inspections, sets maximum allowable wind speeds, and outlines stop work procedures to safeguard employees. Furthermore, it mandates that crane manufacturers provide operational instructions upon request and aligns local government permit issuance with crane operations. The act will take effect on January 1, 2025, and does not apply to cranes used in maritime activities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.17.400, 49.17.420, 49.17.440
Substitute Bill: 49.17.400, 49.17.140, 49.17.440, 49.17.190
Second Substitute: 49.17.400, 49.17.140, 49.17.440, 49.17.190
Bill as Passed Legislature: 49.17.400, 49.17.140, 49.17.440, 49.17.190
Session Law: 49.17.400, 49.17.140, 49.17.440, 49.17.190