As we approach the peak of summer, heat related injuries are becoming a key concern for most business owners in theUnited States. In most of the country, the temperature will begin to hit 80 degrees and higher on a routine basis, and for employees working outdoors or indoors in improperly ventilated and cooled facilities, the chance of a serious injury or even death is rising.

Heat related regulations are littered throughout OSHA’s standards, but heat stress also falls directly in the original Occupational Safety and Health Act, under Section 5(a)(1), which states, “employers shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.” And OSHA has made clear that this broad requirement does, in fact, apply to heat related injuries.

But unlike other hazards, such as evacuation plans and arc flash analysis which have clearly defined standards, it is hard to make blanket suggestions to keep employees safe from heat stress. As a general rule, it is important to have regular and routine breaks available to employees, where they are at least afforded shade, if not access to air conditioning. Access to water or other drinks designed to rehydrate is another important step to take; dehydration is one of the most common catalysts to heat stress. Finally, consider restructuring the work schedule to have high physical demand jobs performed early in the day or later in the evening, when it is cooler.

Ultimately, to properly gauge the effectiveness of your heat stress plan, it is important to have a full audit done on site at your facility. For more information on how an audit would help your company ensure compliance, or to get started, please contact us. If you have anything to add about the dangers of heat stress, please leave a comment.