As the province of British Columbia heads into wildfire season, the BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) has released a new guide to help construction workers stay safe and healthy during this time. The guide highlights the risks associated with exposure to wildfire smoke and provides recommendations on how to mitigate these risks.

According to the BCCSA guide, common symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, headaches, and worsening of allergies. More severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe cough, dizziness, chest pain, heart palpitations, and pneumonia can occur with higher levels of smoke inhalation and longer duration of exposure. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions like asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes are at higher risk for experiencing these severe symptoms.

To protect construction workers from wildfire smoke, the guide recommends using air filters rated MERV 13 or higher in ventilation systems indoors and HEPA portable air cleaners when air filtration is not possible. Air purifying respirators, such as N95 masks and half-mask respirators fitted with an organic vapor cartridge/P100 filter, can also reduce the risk of smoke inhalation when working outdoors.

The guide emphasizes the importance of monitoring the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and recommends reducing strenuous activity when the AQHI is seven or higher to limit increased heart rates and heavy breathing. Workers in high-risk groups, such as pregnant workers, older adults, and individuals with chronic conditions, are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor labor during poor air quality conditions.

Overall, the BCCSA guide provides essential information on how construction workers can protect themselves from the health risks associated with wildfire smoke exposure. It is crucial for employers and workers to follow these recommendations to ensure a safe and healthy work environment during wildfire season. The full guide can be accessed online for more detailed information and guidance.

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