WorkSafe Victoria has issued a bushfire smoke guidance resource for people working outdoors on days of poor air quality.
WorkSafe Victoria said exposure to airborne particles in smoke could cause coughing, shortness of breath and respiratory irritation, as some particles were small enough to enter the throat and lungs.
“Conditions such as asthma, heart or lung conditions may be worsened by exposure,” WorkSafe Victoria said.
“The most effective way to control the risk of exposure to smoke is to avoid outdoor work on days where the air quality rating is poor, very poor or hazardous,” it said.
“Workplaces should review their first aid arrangements to determine if a suitable response is available for employees impacted by bushfire smoke.”
WorkSafe Vic said that ordinary paper dust masks, handkerchiefs or bandannas should not be used as they do not filter out fine particles from bushfire smoke and therefore do not provide protection against health risks.
It said P2 (N95) face masks filtered out fine particulate matter when worn in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.
“The mask needs to fit the wearer securely to achieve an air-tight seal and this will depend on facial size and shape,” it said.
“Facial hair will prevent an air-tight seal being achieved.”
WorkSafe Vitoria also issued guidance on the types of work deemed safe to carry out in different levels of air quality and advised employers to undertake an assessment of their specific work activities to determine appropriate risk controls.
Further information is available at this PS News link.
