Wash. Admin. Code § 296-820-825

Current through Register Vol. 24-20, October 15, 2024

Section 296-820-825 - Information and training

The employer must provide all workers with information and training regarding wildfire smoke before work that exposes the worker to a current PM_2.5 concentration of 20.5 µg/m³ (AQI 69) or more. Training must be provided at least annually thereafter.

(1) Information and training must be provided in a manner and language readily understood by the workers.

(2) At a minimum, the training must include the following information found in WAC 296-820-850, Appendix A:

(a) The health effects and symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure;

(b) The importance of informing the employer when the employee is experiencing symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure;

(c) The right to obtain medical attention without fear of reprisal;

(d) The requirements of WAC 296-820-805 through 296-820-860;

(e) The employer's methods of determining the current PM_2.5 under WAC 296-820-815;

(f) How employees can obtain the current PM_2.5, and the employer's methods to communicate the current PM_2.5;

(g) The employer's response plan for wildfire smoke, including methods to protect employees from wildfire smoke, and the exposure symptom response procedures;

(h) The importance, benefits, and limitations of using a properly fitted respirator when exposed to wildfire smoke;

(i) The risks and limitations of using an unfitted respirator, and the risks of wearing a respirator without a medical evaluation; and

(j) How to properly put on, use, and maintain the respirators provided by the employer.

(3) Supervisor training. Prior to supervising employees performing work that exposes the worker to current PM_2.5 levels that are 20.5 µg/m³ (AQI 69) or more, supervisors must have training on the information in subsection (2) of this section, and the following topics:

(a) The procedures the supervisor must follow to implement the applicable provisions of WAC 296-820-805 through 296-820-860;

(b) The procedures the supervisor must follow if an employee exhibits symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure; and

(c) Procedures for moving or transporting employees to an emergency medical service provider, or other appropriate level of care, if necessary.

Wash. Admin. Code § 296-820-825

Adopted by WSR 24-01-070, Filed 12/14/2023, effective 1/15/2024