SHIP FAQs

What is the SHIP program?

SHIP is Washington’s Safety and Health Investments Project program - a grant program designed to encourage new approaches to improving workplace safety and health. The program was authorized by the Washington Legislature and is funded by the state’s workers’ compensation fund.

Completing your application form

Q. Who can apply for a SHIP Award?
A. Awards may be granted to any agency, firm, organization, individual, or other legal entity such as, but not limited to:

• Trade and business associations.
• Employers (including, but not limited to private, public, non-profit, or self-insured employers if collaborating with medical aid fund employers).
• Employees.
• Labor unions.
• Employee organizations.
• Joint labor and management groups.
• Educational institutions in collaboration with state fund employers or employee representatives.
• Others deemed eligible by L&I.

Q. Where do I get an application for a SHIP grant?
A. You’ll find applications and helpful instructions on our web site at SafetyProjects.LNI.wa.gov.

Q. When are applications due?
A. Applications can be submitted throughout the year. If there are funding limitations or special project priorities for a specific funding cycle the application must be submitted by the end of the funding cycle. Funding cycles are January 1 through June 30 and July 1 through December 31.

Q. Will L&I help me with my application?
A. We can answer questions about how to apply and the application process itself. But we may not prepare or help you prepare your application.

Q. Is there a limit on the funding amount I can request?
A. Some restrictions may apply; check the application packet on the SHIP web page for details.

Q. What type of project will receive priority for a SHIP grant?
A. All projects must address workplace safety and health needs of employers and employees covered by the medical aid fund. Employer/employee sponsored projects aimed at accident prevention will receive priority, including proposals for:

• The development of technical innovation and engineering controls.
• Best practices, i.e., the most effective way of delivering a particular outcome.
• Development and delivery of new safety education and training.
• Other priorities as identified by L&I in collaboration with the WISHA Advisory Committee.

Q. For what type of activity may I not use SHIP funds?
A. You may not use SHIP funds for:

• Lobbying or political activities.
• Supporting, opposing, or developing legislative or regulatory initiatives.
• Any activity not designed to reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, or fatalities.
• Reimbursing employers for the normal costs of complying with safety and health rules.

How applications are reviewed and approved

Q. Who decides if my project will be approved and funded?
A. SHIP Program staff will review and score your application for eligibility, completeness, and how well your proposal fits with the goals of the SHIP program. The SHIP Advisory Committee will then review your application and forward its recommendation to the Assistant Director of the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), who has final approval authority.

Q. How will I know if my application is accepted or denied?
A. We will notify you by letter.

Q. What happens to any products created through my project?
A. All products developed as a result of an approved SHIP award will be maintained by L&I as public property. L&I may make the products available for use by other industries, businesses, or labor organizations. ( WAC 296-900-17505 (4))

How you can appeal if your application is turned down

Q. What if I disagree with the rejection or denial of my application?
A. You may appeal in writing explaining the reasons you believe your application merits reconsideration.

Q. If my application is rejected or denied, can I resubmit it?
A. Yes, but you must specifically address the reasons the application was originally rejected or denied.

How will I receive funding and payment for my project?

Q. How will I receive funding once my application is approved?
A. Funding payments occur through electronic funds transfer to a bank account you establish solely for grant project activity.

Q. Do I have to wait until after the work is done to get the money?
A. Award payments will vary from project-to-project, but typically they will occur periodically during the life of the project.

Q. How will L&I know when to make payments?
A. Key milestones defined in your application become the basis for periodic award payments. However, L&I may delay or suspend funding if key milestones are not met.

Q. If my SHIP grant application is approved are there any other written requirements?

A. Yes. All applicants awarded grant funding must sign a SHIP Grant Award (see sample). This document must also be countersigned by L&I before funding will be disbursed to grantees. The SHIP Grant Award outlines requirements specific to each grant, as well as general requirements applicable to all grant awards.

What if I am still not sure how to proceed?

Q. What if I have questions or run into problems?
A. If you need assistance, contact:

Safety and Health Investment Projects
PO Box 44640
Olympia WA 98504-4640
Phone: 360-902-6307
Fax: 360-902-5459
Email: INVEST@lni.wa.gov
Web site: SafetyProjects.LNI.wa.gov