The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) filed a proposed permanent wildfire smoke rule and launched a formal process for public input.
This is an effort to protect employees who work outdoors in industries like construction and agriculture.
Wildfire smoke is particularly dangerous for people who work outdoors, L&I states. When they breathe in small particles that are carried by wildfire smoke it increases their risk for reduced lung function, aggravated asthma, heart failure and early death.
Because of this hazard to outdoor workers and the increase in wildfires in the state, L&I filed proposed permanent wildfire smoke rules along with a formal process to get public input.
Rule would require employers to monitor air quality
Under the proposed permanent rules, employers are required to monitor air quality and alert workers when it exceeds certain thresholds. If an employee shows signs of injury or illness related to smoke, then an employer will be required to monitor them to determine if they need medical care. Employers would be prohibited from preventing workers from seeking medical treatment.
Reliable statewide “air quality monitoring data is available online 24 hours a day” via the Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow Fire and Smoke Map which tracks the NowCast Air Quality Index (AQI). The NowCast AQI tracks small particle levels in wildfire smoke called PM 2.5.
L&I will conduct six in-person public hearings in Spokane, Kennewick, Bellingham, Vancouver, Tukwila and Yakima, and one virtual public hearing to take comments before the anticipated adoption of the rule in July 2023.
Public comments will be accepted through 5 p.m. on Aug. 4, 2023.
The state agency will review and consider submitted comments before making any adjustments and adopting permanent rules.