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Proposal would create state boiler operator certification program; LNI seeks more data on safety impact
Summary
Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5,694 would make boiler operator certification mandatory statewide with five certification levels, temporary permits for out-of-state operators, and penalties; labor witnesses called it a public-safety measure while LNI said it has not found definitive data showing certification alone improves safety.
Staff described Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5,694 as creating a state boiler operator certification program administered by the Department of Labor & Industries and the Board of Boiler Rules. The bill establishes five certification levels, allows temporary permits for out-of-state operators applying for state certification, exempts several industries (refineries, petrochemical, organic chemical, and biomass energy producers), and authorizes penalties of up to $500 per violation.
Labor witnesses said boiler operation is a public-safety issue that justifies statewide standards. Larry Kratz (field representative, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302) said boilers are in "our children's schools, in our community's hospitals, in our airports," and argued the lack of statewide certification leaves public safety exposed outside Seattle, Tacoma and Spokane, which already have certification programs. Christine Reid (IBEW Local 77) said the union supports safety and high training standards and requested exemptions for employees at electric generating facilities that undergo specialized, site-specific training.
Sophia Steele of the Western States Petroleum Association thanked sponsors for recognizing refinery safety and noted refineries already use extensive process safety management and specialized training.
When staff and members asked for evidence that certification improves safety, Tammy Fallon (Department of Labor & Industries) later told the committee that LNI's review found no national or local data conclusively demonstrating that certification alone improves safety. Fallon said training is important and LNI wants well-trained workers, but the department could not point to data showing a causal safety benefit from certification in available research.
Committee members did not take a formal vote during the hearing; staff indicated rulemaking and implementation details would follow if the bill advances.
