OSHA Heat Rules Effective Immediately in California: Steps for Employers

California has taken a significant step forward in protecting workers from the dangers of heat-related illnesses by implementing new regulations for indoor heat protection. Approved by the Office of Administrative Law (OAL), these rules are now in effect and require immediate action from employers. The regulation applies to most indoor workplaces, such as restaurants, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities, where temperatures can reach dangerous levels. Here’s what employers need to know and do to comply with these new standards.

Overview of the New Regulations

The regulation, part of Cal/OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment, addresses the risks posed by high indoor temperatures. When indoor temperatures reach 82 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must implement preventive measures. These include providing water, rest breaks, and access to cool-down areas.

When temperatures reach 87 degrees Fahrenheit, additional measures are required. Employers must cool down the work area, implement work-rest schedules, and provide personal heat-protective equipment. These measures are crucial for workers who wear clothing that restricts heat removal or work in high radiant heat areas, where additional requirements apply even at 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

“This regulation provides protections for workers across California and helps prepare employers to deal with the challenges of rising temperatures in indoor environments,” stated Cal/OSHA Chief Debra Lee. “My team has prepared resources so that employers can quickly comply with the new requirements and ensure their employees’ safety” source.

Key Requirements for Employers

To comply with the new regulations, employers must take the following steps:

1. Provide Access to Water

Ensure potable drinking water is readily available and easily accessible to employees at all times. The water must be fresh, pure, suitably cool, and located as close as possible to the work areas.

2. Establish Cool-Down Areas

Provide shaded or air-conditioned areas for employees to rest and reduce their body temperature. These areas should be as close to the work area as possible.

3. Implement Work-Rest Schedules

Create schedules that allow employees to take regular breaks in cool-down areas during periods of high heat. The frequency and duration of these breaks should be sufficient to prevent heat illness.

4. Train Employees and Supervisors

Provide training on the risks of heat illness, the importance of hydration, the use of cool-down areas, and the symptoms of heat illness. Both employees and supervisors should be trained to recognize the signs of heat stress and understand the procedures for responding to it.

5. Provide Personal Heat-Protective Equipment

Where necessary, provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to help employees manage heat stress. This can include cooling vests or other gear designed to reduce body temperature.

6. Monitor Indoor Temperatures

Regularly monitor indoor temperatures to ensure preventive measures are implemented when thresholds are reached. Use thermometers or heat index monitors.

7. Develop and Implement a Heat Illness Prevention Plan

Outline procedures for preventing heat illness, including access to water, cool-down areas, emergency procedures, and the responsibilities of supervisors and employees.

Special Considerations for Certain Workplaces

Some workplaces may have specific conditions that require additional measures. For example, employees working in environments with high radiant heat or wearing heavy protective clothing may need additional cooling measures even at lower temperatures. Employers should evaluate their specific work environments to determine any additional steps required.

Exemptions and Special Cases

The new regulations exempt local and state correctional facilities as well as emergency operations directly involved in the protection of life or property. Cal/OSHA is developing industry-specific regulations for these facilities. In the interim, Cal/OSHA will continue to inspect potential indoor heat violations under existing regulations such as the Injury and Illness Prevention Program (Title 8, Section 3203) and Water Supply (Title 8, Section 3363).

Resources for Compliance

Cal/OSHA has prepared various resources to help employers comply with the new regulations. These include a Comparison Chart of Indoor and Outdoor Heat Illness Prevention Standards and the 99calor.org informational website.

Employers and workers with questions or needing assistance with workplace health and safety programs can contact Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch. Confidential complaints about workplace safety and health hazards can be filed with Cal/OSHA district offices.

Conclusion

The immediate implementation of California’s new indoor heat regulations underscores the importance of protecting workers from heat-related illnesses. By following the outlined steps and utilizing available resources, employers can ensure compliance and safeguard their employees’ health and well-being. As temperatures continue to rise, these measures will be crucial in maintaining safe and productive work environments.

For further details, refer to the original news release from the California Department of Industrial Relations.