(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) has announced the release of comprehensive new Guidance To Help Employers Better Protect Outdoor Workers during heavy precipitation events and wildfire smoke hazards.

This initiative builds on the NYSDOL's ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of Outdoor Workers in extreme weather, following the recent release of guidelines to protect Workers from extreme heat.

Historically, New York has experienced extreme weather during this time of year, including Hurricane Sandy, which made landfall in late October 2012.

These events underscore the importance of preparedness and protecting Outdoor Workers from hazardous conditions, the NYSDOL said.

Recent hurricanes, such as Helene and Milton in the southern United States, further highlight the critical need for Worker Protections against the devastating effects of extreme weather.

As the frequency and intensity of these events increase due to climate change, it is essential for employers to take pro-active measures to ensure Worker safety, the NYSDOL said.

NYSDOL Commissioner Roberta Reardon said: “Protecting Workers from the dangers of extreme weather is more important than ever as we face the increasing impacts of climate change.  These new guidelines will provide New York businesses with the tools they need to safeguard Outdoor Workers from dangerous conditions.”

The guidance documents outline specific measures that employers should take before, during, and after extreme weather events to protect Outdoor Workers.

These new resources provide critical information on how to address the hazards posed by both heavy precipitation and wildfire smoke, including recommendations on scheduling work, providing proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and developing emergency response plans, the NYSDOL said.

The guidance advises employers to: Monitor weather alerts from the National Weather Service; Provide waterproof PPE and adjust work schedules as needed; Ensure rest breaks in warm, dry areas and maintain safety during and after precipitation events; and Address Wildfire Smoke Hazards

For wildfire smoke, employers should: Monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and take action when levels exceed safe thresholds; Provide respirators and adjust work plans based on air quality; and Train workers on recognizing smoke-related health risks and proper safety protocols.

Both guidance documents also emphasize the importance of training and emergency planning, ensuring employers and Workers are prepared to respond quickly to changing weather conditions.

The NYSDOL encourages all employers to use these new guidance materials in conjunction with the previously released Extreme Heat Guidance to fully protect their Outdoor Workforce from the spectrum of weather-related hazards.

Ensuring Worker safety in extreme weather conditions not only reduces the risk of accidents and injuries - but also helps businesses avoid increased Workers’ Compensation Claims, insurance costs and decreases in productivity.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: new York State Department Of Labor Announces New Guidance To Protect Outdoor Workers From Heavy Precipitation And Wildfire Smoke Hazards | Department of Labor (ny.gov)