BELLINGHAM, WA – (KGMI.com) Washington’s outdoor workers are about to gain permanent protection against wildfire smoke exposure.

The state Dept. of Labor and Industries filed for the permanent protections to take effect Jan. 15.

Now, only three states have permanent rules protecting outside workers: California, Oregon and Washington.

According to the EPA, wildfire smoke is made up of three kinds of pollutants and water vapor, making it one of the fastest-growing pollutants.

Wildfire smoke is mostly made up of fine particles, including ultrafine particles, that can reach the deepest parts of the lungs, causing severe health issues.

The new rules will require employers to create response plans in the event of a wildfire, provide training to employees, monitor smoke levels, implement two-way comms systems and provide access to medical attention for employees.

For more information about the rules, visit the Dept. of Labor and Industries website.

For more information for employers as well as a live map tracking wildfires, visit this blog.