State occupational health officials reminded employers Thursday to keep an eye on outdoor workers today as temperatures rise into the 90s and beyond.
“Heat waves can occur well into autumn in California, so it’s important to remind employers of their responsibilities to protect workers from heat- related illness,” said Christine Baker of the Department of Industrial Relations, which includes Cal/OSHA.
State rules require employers to teach all employees and supervisors about heat illness, provide cool, fresh water and urge workers to stay hydrated; provide a shaded area for workers to cool off; and prepare an emergency heat-illness plan, with training for supervisors.
“High Heat” procedures are required when temperatures reach 95 degrees. They include giving new workers time to get used to the temperatures.
Online information about heat illness prevention, requirements and training materials is available via Cal/OSHA’s Heat Illness webpage.
Employers or workers can call Cal/OSHA for help or question about heat- related requirements at (800) 963-9424.
— City News Service