It may seem like a strange time to be writing about heat and high temperatures as we just experienced some record snowfalls and low temperatures, but time flies and we need to be preparing for the summer.

For several years, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), has been working on standards for safe workplace practices under conditions where heat stress is possible.  The proposed rules were published on August 30, 2024.

Implementation of the regulations may significantly impact your organization.  This is especially true if you operate in warmer states like Florida or Texas and if you have workers whose primary job is working outdoors.

The Environmental Protection Agency provides data on heat related deaths in the workplace.  Between 1992 and 2022, 996 workers were reported to have died due to heat related exposure.  This is an average of about 34 per year.   About 1/3 were employed in the construction field.

Currently, several states have regulations in place including California, Minnesota, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado.  Others have drafted proposals.  Each has their own requirements.  Some cover only indoor/outdoor workers. Others target a specific temperature or activity.  As an employer, it is recommended that you investigate your state’s requirements.

These are highlights of the OSHA regulations:

• If employees are exposed to temperatures over 80 degrees F, the employer must establish a Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (HIIPP).  This template is provided by OSHA:

• • Some components:
    • Listing specific activities.
    • Recording Temperatures.
    • Developing a heat acclimation program.
    • Providing medical monitoring of employee.
    • Establishing emergency plans.
    • Providing annual employee training.

When over 90 degrees F, there are additional requirements.

• Issue hazard alert.
• Provide 15-minute breaks every 2 hours.
• Provide personal protective equipment.
• Establish a cooling area.
• Always have drinking water available.

Contact your regional OSHA office with questions or 1-800-321-OSHA.

Disclaimer

The information contained herein is provided for information purposes only is not intended to constitute legal, medical or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with your own legal and/or other professional advisors. Some of the information, examples and suggestions presented in this material may be compiled by third party sources we consider to be reliable, however we do not guarantee and are not responsible for the accuracy of such information. We assume no duty in contract, tort, or otherwise in connection with this publication and expressly disclaim, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any liability in connection with this publication. Verita CSG, Inc. does not undertake to update the information included herein after the date of publication. Accordingly, readers should be aware that certain content may have changed since the date of this publication.