Protections for Working Safely in Summer Heat
Temperatures are soaring across the United States and are creating hot and hazardous working conditions. OSHA has issued a trade release with suggestions to help mitigate heat hazards.
- Water. Rest. Shade. Employees should drink water every 15 minutes, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas
- Monitor new employees and offer them extra protections from elevated head conditions until they are fully acclimated.
- Serious heat-related illnesses can occur on normal summer days, when temperatures are not extreme. Workers need additional protective measures whenever the Heat Index is 80 degrees or above.
- Increase ventilation, use cooling fans, and whenever possible schedule work at a cooler time of the day.
- Train workers on the hazards of heat exposure and how to prevent illness.
Stress bullet one throughout the summer to help your employees protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
Source: OSHA
