Cal/OSHA is urging employers to protect workers from unhealthy air due to wildfire smoke.
The Line Fire is impacting air quality in areas around San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
Employers are required to monitor air quality, adjust work practices, and provide N-95 respirators for voluntary use. Cal/OSHA’s standard also outlines specific training requirements.
Related: Report: Experts Worry California’s Wildfire Season Could Get Worse
When wildfire smoke has to potential to affect a worksite, employers must monitor the Air Quality Index for PM2.5 before and throughout the work shift. When the AQI for PM2.5 is above 150, employers must provide respirators to all workers and encourage workers to use respirators. When the AQI for PM2.5 exceeds 500, respirator use is required.
Air quality can be tracked through 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.
Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Commercial Lines Wildfire Workers' Compensation Business Insurance
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