When you think about workers who may be most likely to be exposed to wildfire smoke, outdoor workers likely come to mind first. These workers are often directly (from the fires themselves) and indirectly (from smoke and fine, airborne particles dispersed by fires) affected. However, workers in commercial buildings and office locations near wildfires also face risks.
“Wildfire smoke contains a mixture of harmful chemicals and particles,” the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries says. “This smoke can make anyone sick, even healthy individuals.”
If you’re working in smoky conditions, Washington L&I says “putting on an N95 respirator is not enough by itself. Exposure controls are needed to reduce employee exposure to harmful smoke.”
Here are exposure controls employers and workers can put in place:
- Move work inside when possible.
- Provide portable HEPA filters in enclosed areas.
- Reschedule work to a time with less smoke.
- Avoid or reduce work that creates additional dust, fumes or smoke.
- Relocate work to places with lower smoke levels.
- Provide additional rest times.
