Wildfire Smoke Exposure Prevention Plan
The plan required of CA employers with outdoor workers when AQI ≥151 (Cal/OSHA T8 §5141.1). Adaptable to OR (OAR 437-002-0142) and WA (WAC 296-820) wildfire smoke rules.
When this template is required
Required of California employers with outdoor workers when AQI for PM2.5 ≥151 (Unhealthy). Effective 2019. Triggers communication, training, N95 provision. AQI ≥501 requires N95 use. OR and WA have similar rules.
Why this template
Active enforcement
Cal/OSHA has issued substantial wildfire smoke citations. Plan addresses what gets cited.
AQI-based triggers
§5141.1 uses AirNow AQI for PM2.5. ≥151 requires communication and N95 availability. ≥501 requires N95 use.
N95 voluntary use compliance
Most wildfire smoke N95 use is voluntary under OSHA RPP (1910.134(c)(2)). Appendix D notice included.
Multi-state adaptable
Oregon (OAR 437-002-0142) and Washington (WAC 296-820) have similar rules. Plan adapts with state-specific provisions.
What you receive
- Wildfire Smoke Plan (Word .docx)
- AQI monitoring procedure (PM2.5)
- Worker communication (AQI ≥151 notification)
- N95 respirator provision and training
- Voluntary use Appendix D notice
- Exposure controls
- Annual training outline
- Multi-state adaptation (OR, WA)
How you get it
This document is written and reviewed against the standard it cites, and it is ready now. The download link is emailed as soon as your payment clears.
Revisions included — if something about your operation changes what the document should say, reply to the delivery email and we will amend it.
Who buys this
- CA construction contractors
- CA agriculture and landscaping
- CA delivery and transportation
- OR and WA outdoor employers
- Multi-state Western US employers
Frequently asked
When does the rule trigger?
§5141.1 triggers when AQI for PM2.5 is or is anticipated to be ≥151. Employer must check AQI before each shift if wildfire smoke is possible (typically May-November in CA).
Is N95 mandatory?
AQI 151-500: N95 must be PROVIDED; voluntary use. AQI ≥501: N95 use REQUIRED. Plan documents both scenarios.
What training is required?
Health effects of wildfire smoke; AQI and thresholds; protective methods; symptom reporting; §5141.1 provisions. Before first exposure and annually.
Does this apply outside California?
§5141.1 is CA-specific. OR (OAR 437-002-0142) and WA (WAC 296-820) have similar but distinct rules — plan adapts. Other states: General Duty Clause may apply during severe events.