Inslee Rolls Out Proclamation Aimed At Protecting Farm Workers

Starting June 4^th, the Ag industry be required to have new protections in place to help stave off the spread of COVID-19 among farm workers. Those protections were announced in Governor Jay Inslee’s Proclamation 20-57, released last week.

“The requirements the Governor is announcing today build on the work we’ve been doing for the past several months, and provide a clear framework for protecting workers through things like physical distancing," said Joel Sacks director of Washington Labor and Industries, "Increased handwashing, cleaning and sanitizing, training and education, for work that’s done in the fields, and warehouses and during transportation.”

Other requirements including temperature check and symptom review at the start of each shift, disinfection of high touch surfaces at scheduled breaks, as well as employers and operators providing all mandated PPE, at no cost to the employee. Sacks said L&I provides consultation groups to help employers meet COVID-19 requirements.

“So, if they need help, figuring out the best way to protect workers, we’re here and we’re ready to provide assistance.  We’ve provided consultations to dozens of employers and we stand ready to help more employers and growers.  Because now, more than ever, it’s critical that growers and agricultural workers work together to promote safety and prevent the spread of the coronavirus.”

Sack also discussed how the new proclamation will implement housing and transportation:

Click Here to read the Governor’s proclamation.

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