RCW 49.17.040: Rules and regulations—Authority—Procedure.

The director shall make, adopt, modify, and repeal rules and regulations governing safety and health standards for conditions of employment as authorized by this chapter after a public hearing in conformance with the administrative procedure act and the provisions of this chapter. At least 20 days prior to such public hearing, the director shall provide information of the public hearing and written comment period to newspapers of general circulation in this state. Any preexisting rules adopted by the department of labor and industries relating to health and safety standards in workplaces subject to the jurisdiction of the department shall remain effective insofar as such rules are not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.