Unhealthy Air Quality from Canadian Wildfires Puts Outdoor Workers at Risk
Summary
Cities across the country face dangerous air quality conditions and reduced visibility due to smoke from Canadian wildfires, posing health risks to residents, outdoor workers, and businesses.
Key Highlights
Smoke from Canadian wildfires causes hazy skies and low visibility in cities across the country, including New York City
Outdoor workers, such as construction workers and agricultural laborers, face increased health risks from prolonged exposure to the smoke, including respiratory problems and eye/throat irritation
AccuWeather For Business Air Quality Alerts provides real-time air quality data and customized alerts to help businesses protect their workers and adjust operations
Wildfire Worries
Much of the country is dealing with dangerous air quality conditions because of the influx of smoke from the Canadian wildfires. It causes hazy skies, an odor, and low visibility. It also threatens the health and safety of people, outdoor workers, and businesses in these areas. The poor air quality from these wildfires highlights the need for organizations to have a plan in place to deal with wildfires, even if they are not in the direct path of one. If you don't have a plan, AccuWeather For Business can help you put one together.
For the past few days, cities have woken up to smoke blanketing the area. In New York City, the iconic skyline is invisible. The intensity of the smoke is so potent that Yankee Stadium turns on its floodlights during a baseball game to counter the obscured visibility. But it isn't only New York City; areas from Maryland to New Hampshire experience reduced visibility and a smoky atmosphere.
Health Implications for Outdoor Workers
While the impact of wildfire smoke on the general population's health is concerning, outdoor workers face unique challenges and increased risks due to their prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Construction workers, agricultural laborers, landscapers, and other professionals who spend significant time outdoors are particularly vulnerable. The microscopic particles present in the smoke can quickly enter the respiratory system, causing irritation, inflammation, and respiratory distress.
Prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to various health issues for outdoor workers, including:
- Respiratory Problems: Inhaling smoke particles triggers respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience exacerbations of their symptoms.
- Eye and Throat Irritation: The smoke's irritants cause red, itchy, watery eyes, a sore throat, and nasal congestion. Outdoor workers may also experience headaches and dizziness due to poor air quality.
- Increased Risk of Infections: Smoke inhalation weakens the respiratory system's natural defenses, making outdoor workers more susceptible to respiratory infections and illnesses.
- Long-term Health Effects: Prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke has long-term consequences for outdoor workers, including an increased risk of developing chronic respiratory conditions, reduced lung function, and a higher likelihood of cardiovascular problems.
Air quality alerts are especially crucial for industries with workers constantly exposed to outdoor conditions, such as construction workers and landscapers. The alerts help them take necessary measures and precautions to protect their health and reduce pollution exposure. In the hospitality industry, air quality alerts are crucial to help businesses make informed decisions about operations, such as whether to close outdoor seating areas. Accurate and timely alerts also ensure the public is informed about the situation and can take precautions.
AccuWeather For Business Air Quality Alerts
Unhealthy air quality can lead to severe health impacts on people and businesses, and it is essential to stay updated on the air quality conditions in your area. AccuWeather For Business Air Quality Alerts is an essential tool that helps companies mitigate these risks by providing real-time air quality data. AccuWeather For Business, in collaboration with Plume Labs, provides superior air pollution forecasts, warnings, and insights. This data is provided to businesses, along with customized alerts based on their location and industry, helping them plan and adjust their operations to maximize productivity and reduce health risks.
If your business employs outdoor workers or is in an industry that requires air quality alerts to determine operations – Let's talk about how AccuWeather For Business's Air Quality Alerts can help protect your workers and customers. Contact us today.
