(1) It shall be unlawful for any employer to permit any of his or her employees to operate on docks, in warehouses and/or in or on other waterfront properties any power driven mechanical equipment for the purpose of loading cargo on, or unloading cargo from, ships, barges, or other watercraft, or of assisting in such loading or unloading operations, for a period in excess of twelve and one-half hours at any one time without giving such person an interval of eight hours' rest: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, The provisions of this section shall not be applicable in cases of emergency, including fire, violent storms, leaking or sinking ships or services required by the armed forces of the United States.

     (2) Any person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

[2003 c 53 § 276; 1953 c 271 § 1.]

NOTES:

     Intent -- Effective date -- 2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.