OLYMPIA, WA — New rules are being developed to help prevent common injuries for airline ground crew workers. 

Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond) sponsored the 2023 bill allowing the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) to adopt rules to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders and injuries that come from repetitive movement.   

Injuries from repetitive movements represent a third of all claims in the workers’ compensation system and are a common cause of long-term disability, according to L&I. Scheduled airline ground crews, including baggage handlers and maintenance workers, file these types of claims at a rate 10 times higher than the statewide average.  

“Our airline ground crews work hard at a strenuous job, picking up and carrying heavy luggage all day, and I’m glad L&I is acting to help protect them,” said Sen. Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines), the chair of the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee whose district includes Sea-Tac Airport. “The good news is these ergonomic protections help everyone — they’ll help prevent workers from getting hurt so they can stay on the job and save businesses unnecessary costs that currently go toward addressing these injuries.” 

Safe patient handling programs in health care have reduced the high rates of back injuries among nurses and nurses’ aides. In one study, introducing these programs in nine hospitals reduced injuries by 71% and lost workdays by 90%.  

“We have to ensure people aren’t getting injured on the job. These are issues that follow individuals for life. It’s challenging for them and employers,” Dhingra said. “The law requires transparency on the metrics that trigger rulemaking, so businesses can self-correct if they see problems developing.” 

Washington, now one of only two states allowing workplace safety rules to prevent musculoskeletal injuries, has adopted a unique approach. Each year, L&I must now publish a list of industries eligible for rulemaking and identify those most likely to be selected for future rulemaking. The law also enables L&I to fund employers for necessary equipment and hire ergonomists for employer consultation. As part of rulemaking, L&I must gather input from affected employers and employees on concerns and best practices.  

The earliest the new rules could take effect is July 1, 2026. 

Learn more about the rulemaking process here.