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Wildfire Smoke Rules Would Protect Workers

Wildfire Smoke Rules Would Protect Workers

Wildfires in Washington and the Pacific Northwest have become more severe and more frequent, and are particularly dangerous for people who work outdoor jobs like construction, agriculture, roofing, roadwork, and certain other industries. When they breathe in the tiny particles carried by the smoke, it increases the risk of reduced lung function, aggravated asthma, heart failure, and even early death.

To protect these workers, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries filed proposed permanent wildfire smoke rules and launched a formal process for public input in May, creating wildfire smoke rules that would protect workers.

As air quality gets worse, employers must provide increased protection to keep workers safe and healthy if the NowCast Air Quality Index (AQI) for small particles of dangerous material, known as PM 2.5, is 69 or higher.

A Summary of Proposed Requirements

NowCast AQI for PM 2.5 ​Required Protections​ 69 or higher     

  • Wildfire smoke response plan
  • Wildfire smoke safety training
  • Emergency response measures for workers experiencing wildfire smoke symptoms​

For 101 degrees or higher           

  • Respiratory protection requirements; use of respirators voluntary
  • Feasible wildfire smoke exposure controls

For 300 degrees or higher           

  • If workers experience wildfire smoke symptoms requiring medical attention, they must be relocated to a space with clean air​

For 500 degrees or higher           

  • Respirators (N95 at a minimum) required to be worn by affected workers
  • Full workplace respiratory protection program required​

Beyond the AQI               

  • N95 is not sufficiently protective at this level; more protective respirators are required​

Additional requirements

Under the proposed permanent rules, employers must monitor the air quality and alert workers when it exceeds certain exposure thresholds. When workers show signs of injury or illness related to smoke, employers must monitor them to determine if medical care is needed, and employers cannot prevent workers from seeking medical treatment.

Reliable statewide air quality data is available online 24 hours a day. The Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow Fire and Smoke Map is a good source for employers to track the NowCast AQI for PM 2.5.

More ways to protect workers

During the rulemaking process, employers still must take steps to protect their workers from exposure to wildfire smoke. To meet that responsibility, L&I encourages employers to follow safety measures including:

  • Training workers on wildfire smoke hazards.
  • Monitoring air quality.
  • Providing adequate respiratory protection—along with training on proper use.
  • Monitoring workers for symptoms of exposure.
  • Reducing, rescheduling, or relocating work.
  • Reducing the work intensity or increasing rest periods.

L&I provides a host of free resources on its Wildfire Smoke web page, including more steps employers can take to protect the health and safety of outdoor workers.

At NWRTW we must be vigilant regarding all work-related injuries, and work closely with Labor and Industries. Contact us to learn more.

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