Wildfire Smoke creates health risks for outdoor workers in Central California outdoors

Fresno, California (KFSN) – Smoke hangs in the air in California as large forest fires continue to burn.

For some it is not an option to avoid bad air by staying inside.

Many construction and agricultural workers were outdoor outdoors on Friday.

Map: See where California forest fires are burning

The protection of Cal/Osha from Waldbrand -Rauch standard requires employers to protect workers from unhealthy air due to smoke fire.

If the air quality index or AQI for PM 2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) increases over 151, employers must make accommodation. This includes the shift of work to a location with healthier air, adaptation tasks or schedules to reduce the exposure and provide masks.

“Over 151 you have to offer breathing protection like an N95 for voluntary use,” said Edgar Gonzalez from the Task Force of the Agricultural Enforcement by Cal/Osha. “But before that, you should inform your employees about what they do when the conditions rise, what the air quality index means and what right -wing employees have to ask for such protection.”

If the AQI exceeds PM 2.5 500, the use of respiratory protection agents is required.

Relationships: follows every running fire that burns throughout Central California

Heather Heinks with the Valley Air District said it is important that everyone pays attention to smoke, regardless of the AQI.

“If you can smell it, regardless of what our monitor says, this affects you,” said Heinks. “Smoke drives in springs. It could easily miss a monitor and hit a neighborhood. So trust your instincts primarily. And yes, there is probably not a good time to go outside on a certain day, unless you check the air quality to see what conditions are.”

Daily air quality forecasts and further information can be found on the website of the Valley Air District.

In California, it is illegal for employers to take revenge against employees because they refused to work under uncertain conditions, even in evacuation zones.

If you have concerns about your employer, you can submit an anonymous tip.

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