California Construction News staff writer
A new Public Health Officer Order has been issued in Los Angeles County, as fires continue to release hazardous smoke and particulate matter into the air, making it unsafe for outdoor work. This measure is in response to the ongoing wildfire events and strong winds that have significantly degraded air quality, creating serious health risks for residents and workers alike.
The use of power air blowers, including leaf blowers, is now prohibited in Los Angeles County, a measure aimed to reducing the spread of smoke, ash, and particulate matter into the air, which poses serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
For the construction industry, this means finding alternative methods to manage dust and debris on sites while ensuring the health and safety of workers by adhering to new regulations.
Construction workers can be at a higher risk of health issues due to prolonged exposure to poor air quality, especially those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, or those working in areas with heavy ash or smoke.
The order recommends that workers wear N95 or P100 masks when working outdoors during smoky conditions. As a result, workers must be equipped with proper protective gear and to consider modifying work schedules or taking additional safety measures to limit exposure.
This order applies to all affected areas and sectors, including construction. Failure to comply with these restrictions could lead to fines or penalties, so it’s crucial to adjust site operations to meet the new health and safety guidelines.
Outdoor tasks may need to be rescheduled or modified, especially for cleanup, site preparation, and any work that would typically require the use of blowers.