The number of large fires has doubled in the last three decades, with the risk and extent of wildfires growing every year. Smoke from nearby wildfires hangs over the area, creating hazardous conditions for anyone working or enjoying the outdoors.
As wildfires continue, employers are expected to protect workers from wildfire smoke. Plan ahead and create a safety plan for when smoke levels get bad.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
The AQI indicates when the outdoor air quality is ‘unhealthy,’ ‘very unhealthy,’ or ‘hazardous.’ These ratings signal when healthy workers may begin to experience adverse health effects.
Adverse health effects can occur at lower levels of smoke due to being an outdoor worker, the level of physical exertion, or having pre-existing medical conditions.
When air quality is in the unhealthy range, check your HVAC system’s filters–the higher MERV, the better. You will also want to check all doors and windows to make sure they have good seals. The idea is to minimize the amount of air coming into your hotel.
Download the EPA AIRNow app for your iPhone or your Android device. This app will describe air conditions in your area.
Additional Resources
Department of Health
Other Resources
EPA’s AIRNow App (Andriod)
EPA’s AIRNow App (Apple/iOS)
Washington Smoke Blog
Washington clean air agencies
