Indoor Heat
Earlier this month, OSHA released news of a proposed indoor heat illness prevention rule. To read the full news release, click here. Soon, California’s OSHA (Cal/OSHA) will publish an indoor heat illness prevention regulation. While we don’t have all the details on the federal OSHA indoor heat illness prevention proposed regulation, we have information on the California regulation. Here’s a brief overview:
Trigger Temp: The regulation will affect all indoor workplaces when the interior temperature reaches 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water: Free, clean, cool water must be available to employees. The water must be located as close as possible to where the employees are working.
Breaks: Employees must be allowed to take breaks in an area that is less than 82 degrees.
Monitor and Control: Supervisors must monitor the indoor temperatures and record either the temperature or the heat index when it reaches 87 degrees, and they must implement controls to keep employees safe. If employees are wearing PPE or clothing that increases their body temperature, then supervisors must monitor and record the temperature or heat index and implement controls when it reaches 82 degrees.
First Aid: Employees must be provided first aid or emergency medical treatment when the employees show signs and/or symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Acclimatization: New employees or employees newly assigned to work in the area where temperatures are high must be observed for 14 days to make sure they are acclimatized to working in the heat.
Training: Employees and supervisors must be trained on the above listed information.
Put it in Writing: Employers with known indoor temperatures that can reach 82 degrees must have a written compliance plan.
The important take-away from this is that heat-related illnesses are serious. Heat stroke is the most serious, with a 20% mortality rate. Per the CDC, from 2018 to 2020, there were more than 3,000 deaths from heat related illnesses in the United States. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks, and let someone know if you think you have the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. Don’t take chances.
Weekly Safety Challenge:
As you talk with your coworkers, test each other on the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. Ask each other how heat is affecting what you do at work, keeping in mind that high humidity can exacerbate heat issues.
