Temporary Worker Housing Rule Revisions

Recently Adopted Rules

The COVID-19 Emergency rules expired January 14, 2023.

For continued guidance on COVID-19 in Temporary Worker Housing, visit the links below:

COVID-19 Common Questions Regarding Worker Face Covering and Mask Requirements, Labor and Industries

Temporary Worker Housing COVID-19 Guidance (PDF)

Guidance for Non-Healthcare Businesses and Organizations during COVID-19 (PDF)

Current Rulemakings

On September 10, 2020, the Department of Health (department) and the Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) each filed a Preproposal Statement of Inquiry (CR-101) WSR 20-19-047 (PDF) and WSR 20-19-050 (PDF) respectively, regarding permanent amendments to Chapter 246-358 WAC, Temporary Worker Housing and Chapter 296-307 WAC, Safety Standards for Agriculture to address outbreaks of communicable diseases. Some amendments made as part of the ongoing series of emergency rules to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be considered for permanent rulemaking. For example, changes to ventilation requirements, and isolation requirements during an outbreak.

Provide Feedback on Draft Rule

By April 10, 2023, send us your comments to BOTH: tempworkerrule@doh.wa.gov and cynthia.ireland@lni.wa.gov.

Draft Rule Language (PDF)

DOH and L&I will keep interested parties informed of rule developments through email notifications and by posting information on their rulemaking websites. 

Agency Contacts

Department of Health: Temporary Worker Housing Rule Revision
Nina Helpling, Rules Coordinator, 360-236-3065

Department of Labor and Industries: Temporary Worker Housing in Agriculture Rulemaking
Cynthia Ireland, Administrative Regulations Analyst, 360-791-5048