Cal/OSHA Reminds Employers About Heat Illness Prevention Standards

As temperatures in across the Central Valley in California are expected to reach triple digits in the next few weeks, Cal/OSHA is reminding employers that shade must be made available to workers at all times.

Temperatures are expected to reach triple digits across the Central Valley in California, and Cal/OSHA is reminding employers with outdoor workers that shade must be made available at all times, and must in place when temperatures reach 80 degrees or above. In addition, employers should encourage workers to take cool-down rests in the shade to prevent overheating.

The workers affected by California’s heat illness prevention standard include agriculture, construction and landscaping workers, as well as security guards, groundskeepers, and transportation and delivery drivers in non-air-conditioned vehicles.

According to a release by the Department of Industrial Relations, in order to prevent heat illness, workers must:

  • Plan – Develop and implement an effective written heat illness prevention plan that includes emergency response procedures. 
  • Training – Train all employees and supervisors on heat illness prevention. 
  • Water – Provide drinking water that is fresh, pure, suitably cool and free of charge so that each worker can drink at least 1 quart per hour, and encourage workers to do so. 
  • Shade – Provide shade when workers request it or when temperatures exceed 80 degrees. Encourage workers to take a cool-down rest in the shade for at least five minutes. They should not wait until they feel sick to cool down.

Cal/OSHA also encourages workers who are experiencing symptoms of heat illness to stop working and take a cool-down rest in the shade immediately. Workers with some existing health problems or medical conditions may be more susceptible to heat illness.

Detail on heat illness prevention requirements and training materials are available online on Cal/OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention web page and the 99calor.org informational website. A Heat Illness Prevention online tool is also available on Cal/OSHA’s website.

Industrial Hygiene Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

  • Donaldson iCue™ Connected Filtration Monitoring

    Donaldson iCue™ Connected Filtration Monitoring

    Donaldson's iCue™ Connected Filtration Monitoring technology is designed to remotely monitor a facility’s dust, fume, and mist collection equipment and provide operational insights. When connected to your facility’s dust collection system, the iCue service, can track three sets of operational data relevant to EHS professionals including differential pressure (dP), particulate trend monitoring, and relative airflow. The iCue connected filtration service monitors all three conditions and provides real-time data for accurate compliance reporting. 3

  • BAND V2 Wearable Heat Monitor/Alert

    BAND V2 Wearable Heat Monitor/Alert

    Need help with your heat program to meet the OSHA Heat-related Hazards NEP? The SlateSafety BAND V2 arm-worn monitor provides 24/7 connected real-time monitoring of heart rate, exertion levels, and core temperature. BAND V2 alerts workers and OH&S professionals before heat exposure injuries occur. Tough to withstand harsh environments, yet comfortable for workers and easy to use for you, BAND V2 can optimize work/rest cycles, promoting safety and productivity. Its powerful web-based platform and the new Go Mobile App helps you connect and protect workers from heat stress in real-time. Visit SKC at AIHce Booth 601 for a demo! 3

Featured

Webinars