California Department of Industrial Relations
09/24/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/24/2024 18:16
Wildfire Smoke Alert: Cal/OSHA Urges Employers to Protect Workers from Unhealthy Air
ADVISORY
San Bernardino-Cal/OSHA is urging employers to protect workers from unhealthy air due to wildfire smoke. Currently, the Line Fire is impacting air quality in areas around San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Cal/OSHA's Protection from Wildfire Smoke standard requires employers to protect workers from unhealthy air due to wildfire smoke.
To protect workers, employers must monitor air quality, adjust work practices, and provide N-95 respirators for voluntary use. Cal/OSHA's standard also outlines specific training requirements. Full details, including resources in both English and Spanish, can be found at www.WildfireSmokeCalifornia.org and www.HumodeIncendios.org.
MONITORING AIR QUALITY: When wildfire smoke might affect a worksite, employers must monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) for PM2.5 before and throughout the work shift.
Where the AQI for PM2.5 is above 150, the employer must provide respirators to all workers and encourage workers to use respirators.
Where the AQI for PM2.5 exceeds 500, respirator use is required.
Air quality can be tracked through websites like the U.S. EPA's AirNow or local air quality management district websites. Employers can also use their own instruments to measure PM2.5 at worksites under Cal/OSHA's requirements.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
More resources for wildfire smoke safety:
Cal/OSHA helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Cal/OSHA's Consultation Services provides free and voluntary assistance to employers to improve their health and safety programs.
Workers who have questions about wildfire smoke hazards and protections can call 833-579-0927 to speak with a Cal/OSHA representative. Complaints about workplace safety and health hazards can be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices.
Media Contact:[email protected] (510) 286-1161
Employers with Questions on Requirements May Contact: [email protected], or call your local Cal/OSHA Consultation Office