Among other measures, it is crucial that workers are actively monitored for early signs of heat illness. This helps ensure sick employees receive treatment immediately and that the symptoms do not develop into serious illness or death.
"During heat waves and whenever temperatures reach or exceed 95 degrees, employers must take additional steps to monitor workers for signs and symptoms of heat illness," Cal/OSHA warns. "Water, rest and shade can protect workers from the heat."
California's heat regulation requires employers to protect outdoor workers by taking these basic steps:
- Train all employees and supervisors about heat illness prevention.
- Provide enough fresh water so that each employee can drink at least 1 quart, or four 8-ounce glasses, of water per hour, and encourage them to do so.
- Provide access to shade and encourage employees to take a cool-down rest in the shade for at least 5 minutes. They should not wait until they feel sick to cool down.
- Ensure that emergency medical services can and will be summoned when an employee feels sick or exhibits signs of heat illness, such as nausea, exhaustion or mental confusion.
- Develop and implement written procedures for complying with the Cal/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention Standard.
- Online information on the heat illness prevention requirements and training materials can be obtained at Cal/OSHA's Heat Illness web page. A Heat Illness Prevention e-tool is also available on Cal/OSHA's website.
