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Latest Business News
Air Pollution and Workplaces: What Companies and Employees Should Know
The recent impact of Canadian wildfires has highlighted the issue of air pollution for companies, reminding them that they do not necessarily need to be in California or Asia to face challenges from it. Companies now need to make quick decisions on how to keep their workers safe during times of poor air quality. Most companies and public officials were slow to take action when air quality in New York City became the most unhealthy in the world. In such situations, companies and workers should expect air quality issues to return, and advance planning can help reduce potential scrambling that occurred early during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Companies Have a Responsibility to Provide Safe Work Environment
Under the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules, companies have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment. Therefore, making employees work in unfavorable environments is a direct violation that may result in fines and penalties.
Air Quality Challenges are Becoming a Broader Employee Health Issue
Increased awareness among employers and commercial real estate firms, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, has highlighted the importance of air quality for employees. Companies should address the issue in entirety and ensure that their systems are adequate for protecting employees in times of hazardous air quality. For instance, outside workers may need protective equipment and reassignment to a better air quality area, whereas indoor workers may require upgraded ventilation and filtration systems. Companies can find more information on air quality recommendations from the OSHA website.
California, Oregon, and Washington Offer Guidance
Some states have adopted, or are considering adopting, specific rules to help companies address wildfire or air quality situations. For example, California requires companies to proactively protect employees from air pollution caused by wildfires that affect their work environment. Oregon has passed a similar measure, and Washington has proposed one. Companies should look to these states for guidance on how they dealt with smoke and other air quality issues, including making sure that their HVAC systems are working correctly and maintaining high-quality air filtration systems. Commercial building owners can get help from The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers.
Keep N95 Masks in Stock and Allow Work-From-Home Options
Small details like keeping N95 masks in stock and available for workers to protect themselves can make a big difference. Companies can also offer employees the option to work at home during periods of poor air quality. Employers already have such tools in their pandemic toolkits.
Expect Future Legal and Regulatory Changes
Given the changing legal landscape and links between climate change and increased severity of wildfire seasons, employers need to start preparing for potential regulations in the future. Any company that implements potential solutions now will be better positioned to adapt to changes in the regulations, especially when demonstrating their care for employees.
In today's world, air quality challenges are becoming a broader employee health issue. Companies have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment that includes protecting their workers from hazardous air quality situations. The Canadian wildfires have highlighted the issue of air pollution for companies worldwide, reminding them that they need to plan ahead and take action to protect their employees. In times of poor air quality, companies and workers should expect air quality issues to return. Companies looking to address this issue should refer to states such as California, Oregon, and Washington for guidance on how to deal with smoke and other air quality issues. They can keep N95 masks in stock and allow work-from-home options during periods of poor air quality. Lastly, any company that implements potential solutions now will be better positioned to adapt to changes in regulations, especially when demonstrating their care for employees.
It's important for new businesses to keep these guidelines in mind, not just for regulatory compliance but also to build a healthy and responsible workplace culture. Start by investing in systems and equipment that prioritize employee health, like upgraded ventilation and filtration systems. Small details like keeping N95 masks in stock and available for workers to protect themselves can also make a big difference. New businesses should prioritize keeping an eye on any potential regulatory changes and industry best practices to continuously improve their air quality systems. Being proactive about addressing air quality challenges helps companies build trust with their employees and shows that they prioritize their employees' health and well-being.
