Gov Moore Announces Liberal Leave for Non-emergency Essential Employees who Work Outside
Governor Wes Moore has announced this guidance to all State of Maryland Employees:
Maryland is under a Code Red Air Quality Alert for Friday, July 17, with Western Maryland reaching Code Purple, per an air quality forecast issued by the Maryland Department of the Environment. The alerts are caused by wildfires that are burning in Canada, primarily in the area of Thunder Bay on Lake Superior and the northern US where 2 wildfires are burning in northern Minnesota.
Governor Wes Moore urges agencies to move outdoor activities inside if possible and limit staff time outdoors. Liberal leave is available for non-emergency essential employees who work outside.
The Maryland Department of Health is advising Marylanders to follow the Clean Air Partners Air Quality Action Guide, which provides information to reduce the harmful effects of polluted air. In addition, Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) recommends consulting the National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health guidance regarding outdoor workers and wildfire smoke.
Additionally, given the forecasted high temperatures, agencies with heat stress plans should review those plans and prepare to carry out any required actions.