Wildfire Smoke: Employer Duties

Washington employers should treat wildfire smoke and unhealthy air quality as workplace hazards. Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, can irritate the eyes and lungs, worsen asthma, and increase cardiovascular and respiratory risks. Outdoor workers and employees performing physically demanding work face greater exposure.

Washington’s wildfire smoke rules generally require covered employers to:

• Develop a wildfire smoke response plan before exposure is anticipated.
• Check PM2.5 conditions before each shift and periodically as conditions change.
• Establish two-way communication so employees can report worsening conditions or symptoms.
• Train employees on smoke hazards, symptoms, protective measures, and respirator use.
• Respond promptly when workers experience smoke-related symptoms.
• Use feasible exposure controls, such as changing schedules, relocating work, reducing strenuous activity, or providing enclosed, filtered areas.
• Provide appropriate respirators at no cost when state thresholds are reached. At extreme concentrations, respirator use and a formal respiratory protection program may be mandatory.

The rule begins applying at lower levels than the federal Air Quality Index category labeled “Unhealthy,” so employers should not wait for an AQI of 151 before taking action. Some enclosed buildings and vehicles may qualify for an exemption when outside air is effectively filtered and doors and windows remain closed.

Businesses whose operations generate dust, smoke, asbestos, or other air pollutants may also have separate obligations under state or local clean-air regulations, including permits, notifications, dust controls, and burn restrictions.

Employers should review their safety plans before smoke season, identify who will monitor conditions, and keep properly fitted N95 or more protective respirators readily available. This overview is general information and is not legal advice.

Learn More Here: 

Washington Administrative Code, Chapter 296-820: Wildfire Smoke
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: Wildfire Smoke
Washington State Department of Health: Smoke From Fires
Washington Department of Ecology: Air Quality