Safe Work Australia has urged the public to regularly check the air quality in their work environment to determine whether air pollution is at safe or unsafe levels.
In a statement, Safe Work Australia said workplaces must have measures in place to protect worker health and safety.
“If you have an air pollution sensitivity, particularly if combined with an underlying medical condition, you should advise your workplace and follow the advice of your GP or specialist physician,” the Agency said.
It warned that dust and smoke may reduce air quality and impact visibility; settle onto equipment and impact functioning of equipment and grip of surfaces; and irritate the airway, nose and eyes.
“Your workplace must have measures in place to manage the risks,” it said.
It said the measures could include working indoors; rescheduling outdoor work until conditions improve; ensuring equipment is functioning correctly and has not been affected by dust or debris; and supplying personal protective equipment such as eye protection and properly fitted P2-rated face masks.
The Agency said eliminating exposure to air pollution was the best protection.
