Cal/OSHA is reminding all employers to protect outdoor workers from heat illness as excessive heat watches have been issued in many areas around California. The temperature is forecast to reach or exceed 110 degrees this week through September 5th including in areas around Sacramento, Fresno, San Bernardino, Riverside and Imperial County. Excessive heat watches are also in effect for above-average temperatures in inland parts of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Orange and San Diego counties through September 4, 2022.
Cal/OSHA’s heat illness prevention standard applies to all outdoor worksites. To prevent heat illness, the law requires employers to provide:
- Outdoor workers fresh water
- Access to shade at 80 degrees and whenever requested by a worker
- Cool-down rest breaks in addition to regular breaks
Employers must also maintain a written prevention plan with training on the signs of heat illness and what to do in case of an emergency.
Visit Cal/OSHA for additional information on protecting workers from heat illness.