Cal/OSHA is urging employers across California to take urgent action to protect workers from unhealthy air conditions as multiple wildfires continue to spread across the state.
Fires including the TCU September Lightning Complex in Tuolumne, Calaveras, and Stanislaus counties, the Salt 14‑2 Fire and Garnet Fire in Fresno County, and the Gifford Fire in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties are generating smoke that affects large regions, posing hazardous conditions for outdoor workers.
For up-to-date information on wildfire incidents, employers and workers can visit CAL FIRE’s Incident Page.
Under Cal/OSHA’s Protection from Wildfire Smoke standard, employers are required to shield workers from harmful air quality caused by wildfire smoke.
This includes monitoring air quality, adjusting work practices when necessary, and providing N-95 respirators for voluntary use.
The standard also mandates specific training to ensure employees understand the risks and how to protect themselves.
Employers must actively monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) for PM2.5 at worksites when wildfire smoke may impact the area.
If the AQI exceeds 150, respirators must be made available to all workers, and their use encouraged. When levels exceed 500, respirator use becomes mandatory.
Air quality can be tracked via the U.S. EPA’s AirNow website, local air quality management districts, or through employer-owned monitoring instruments that comply with Cal/OSHA requirements.
Cal/OSHA also emphasises that workers cannot face retaliation for refusing to work under unsafe conditions, including in evacuation zones. Employers must respect workers’ rights to refuse dangerous work and ensure their safety in accordance with state regulations.
Additional guidance on safety in wildfire smoke and evacuation zones can be found in Cal/OSHA’s fact sheet “Worker Safety Wildfire Smoke and Evacuation Zones.”
By following these measures, employers can help protect workers from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke while maintaining compliance with state safety standards.
