The recent wildfires raging across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho have brought about a critical challenge for air quality, especially on outdoor job sites where it is critical that health and safety protocols are observed. With Oregon currently battling 38 active wildfires, more than California, Idaho, and Washington combined, the scale of these fires has created hazardous working conditions, especially for those working in the drilling industry.

In Oregon alone, over 767,600 acres are burning, with major fires concentrated in central and eastern parts of the state. The situation is similarly dire in Washington and Idaho, where wildfires continue to spread due to dry, hot, and windy conditions. These fires not only pose a direct threat to workers but also significantly degrade air quality, creating an unsafe environment for outdoor laborers. 

Although the numbers are ever-changing, the National Weather Service’s Boise account shared a shocking graphic that puts into perspective the severity of the situation as seen above.

OSHA Guidelines on Air Quality for Laborers

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has clear guidelines to protect workers from the dangers of poor air quality due to wildfires. If you are a company leader in the Pacific Northwest or a driller working for a PNW brand, it's time you refresh your memory on these guidelines and ensure you adhere to them for long-term health and safety.

According to OSHA, employers must:

1. Monitor Air Quality: Employers are required to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) to assess the level of pollution. The AQI is categorized into six levels:

   • Good (0-50)
   • Moderate (51-100)
   • Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150)
   • Unhealthy (151-200)
   • Very Unhealthy (201-300)
   • Hazardous (301-500)

2. Implement Protective Measures: When the AQI exceeds 151 (Unhealthy), OSHA advises that employers must implement protective measures. These include:

   • Reducing the duration of outdoor work.
   • Providing respiratory protection, such as N95 masks.
   • Ensuring access to adequate hydration and rest breaks.

3. Emergency Response Plans: Employers should have emergency response plans that include protocols for evacuating workers and providing first aid in case of smoke inhalation or other fire-related injuries.

4. Training and Education: Workers must be trained to recognize symptoms of smoke exposure, such as coughing, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing, and should know how to use protective equipment correctly.

Recommended Apps for Tracking Air Quality

To help outdoor laborers and their employers stay informed about air quality conditions, several apps are available that provide real-time updates and forecasts. Here are a few recommended ones:

1. AirVisual: This app offers real-time air quality maps and forecasts, helping users track pollution levels globally. It provides detailed AQI data and health recommendations based on current air quality conditions.

2. EPA’s AirNow: Developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, AirNow provides official air quality data and forecasts for locations across the United States. It also offers notifications for significant air quality changes.

3. PurpleAir: Using a network of sensors, PurpleAir provides real-time air quality monitoring and detailed maps. It allows users to track changes in air quality in specific locations, making it easier for employers to decide on work schedules.

4. BreezoMeter: This app offers real-time air quality information and personalized health recommendations. It tracks various pollutants and provides alerts when air quality reaches hazardous levels.

All in all, the wildfires in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho present a substantial threat to the safety of all boots-on-the-ground drillers in the PNW. Fortunately, by adhering to OSHA guidelines and using reliable air quality monitoring tools, you can ensure the well-being of your fellow workers in these hazardous conditions.

By staying informed and proactive, employers can mitigate the risks associated with poor air quality and maintain safe working environments for their teams, while team members can inform their bosses of potentially threatening work environments before injuries occur. 

To actively track the air quality conditions of the PNW, follow the Washington Air Quality Map that details Washington and its surrounding states in real-time detail.

For more on air quality on job sites, check out Episode 120 of The Driller Newscast with Brock Yordy, where he interviews Jesse Richardson on air quality, water rights, and more!