What are the training requirements for workers who clean up after a fire or wildfire?

OSHA requires training to be provided to employees in a manner and language they readily understand. Training for workers who clean up after a fire or wildfire include:

• Understanding air quality readings and hazard scales;
• Two-way communication system procedures;
• Signs and symptoms of smoke exposure;
• Potential acute and chronic health effects of smoke exposure;
• Control measures used to prevent smoke exposure;
• Required personal protective equipment (PPE);
• Use, maintenance, benefits and limitations of PPE; and
• Procedures for reporting incidents and seeking medical attention for exposures.

Best practice is to document employee training. Documentation should include the name of each employee trained, the date of training, a summary (or copy) of training topics, and the name of the person(s) providing the training.