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