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Bushfire and bushfire smoke

Last updated: 14 November 2024

Note: This information is for businesses and other person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) who are not directly involved in firefighting, but might have workers affected by bushfires and smoke caused by bushfires.

Western Australia has some of the driest climatic regions in Australia and is prone to bushfires. Dry conditions and strong winds during the hotter months increase the likelihood and severity of the fires. WA has witnessed several significant bushfire incidents in recent years affecting both Perth and its regional areas.

Bushfires can start anywhere at any time, so as a PCBU, it is important to consider all the health and safety risks associated with a bushfire including bushfire smoke in the workplace and develop a comprehensive emergency plan.

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WHS Act) PCBUs have obligations to provide and maintain a safe working environment for workers in so as far as is reasonably practicable.

Risk management

A risk assessment will assist PCBUs to think about what could happen if any of your workers are exposed to bushfires and bushfire smoke.

Examples of the steps you can take as part of your planning process:

  • identify the bushfire hazard and other associated hazards, including bushfire smoke.
  • assess the risk of bushfires.
  • determine the most effective control measures to manage the risks in your workplace.
  • review hazards and control measures to ensure they are working.

Working safely when there is a bushfire smoke

Three key steps to work safely when there is bushfire smoke.

Prepare

Here are some things you can do in your workplace to prepare for bushfire smoke events:

  • talk to your workers about working safely when there is bushfire smoke
  • identify sensitive workers and talk to them about their needs and how to keep them safe. Sensitive workers include old workers, workers with heart or lung conditions, workers with diabetes, pregnant workers, workers with or recovering from respiratory illness, workers with disabilities.
  • check door and window seals.
  • check air conditioners are working properly and that filters have been cleaned or replaced.
  • make personal protective equipment (PPE) available, such as P2/N95 masks and eye protection, and provide guidance on how to use them correctly.
  • communicate with workers working remotely in a bushfire-prone area.

Visit Safe Work Australia’s webpage for guidance on Working near bushfires.

Monitor

To monitor smoke near you, you should:

Respond

If there is a bushfire smoke event near you:

  • follow the advice of emergency services and government health agencies
  • reschedule outdoor work where possible
  • keep windows and doors closed during periods of poor air quality. Open doors and windows during smoke-free periods
  • set air conditioners to recycle mode, including in the building and vehicles to ensure smoke is not drawn in from outside
  • seek medical help if you feel unwell. Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing from exposure to bushfire smoke should seek urgent medical attention by calling 000.

Reduce risk of bushfire

If you work in a fire prone area, ensure that:

  • flammable chemical and liquid carriers are properly maintained, such as fuel, to minimise the risk of unintentional leakage onto the ground
  • dispose of litter correctly, particularly cigarette butts and glass
  • you do not use equipment that could generate sparks or flames near combustible materials
  • check the rules of total fire ban.

A trained health and safety representative (HSR) may direct a worker in their workgroup to cease work if the HSR has reasonable concern that performing the work would expose the worker to a serious risk.

Before issuing the direction, the HSR must consult with the PCBU. Read the information sheet on the powers, functions and rights of and HSR.

Volunteers and volunteer organisations

If you are a volunteer, or engage volunteers, you may have duties under the WHS Act.

See the information for volunteer organisations to understand your responsibilities.

For bushfire resources visit the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and Safe Work Australia websites.

Department of Fire and Emergency services

Safe Work Australia

Other resources and guidance

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Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

© Government of Western Australia 2017 to 2024