During periods of hot weather, employers have various responsibilities to provide safe workplaces for employees who work outside for extended periods of time or in interior spaces that are not cooled. Unprotected employees may experience heatstroke, exhaustion, or worse, resulting in occupational injuries, possible OSHA/ state safety violations, and workers’ compensation claims.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health lists the following workers as the most likely to be impacted:
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Agricultural workers (NOTE: additional state requirements may apply)
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Construction workers
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Landscapers
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Maintenance workers, painters
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Food cart/truck vendors
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Car lot salespeople and car washers
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Delivery drivers
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Oil and gas field crews
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Public safety: firefighters, police, security guards, lifeguards
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Amusement park workers
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Tour guides, swimming pool staff
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Outdoor event security, marketing, outreach, caterers, parking attendants, etc.
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Those who work in warehouses, barns, and other structures that are not cooled
In addition, certain health conditions make employees more susceptible to heat illnesses, including:
To reduce risks and boost employee safety, productivity, and morale, employers should draft high-heat safety protocols and train employees on them. These free resources may help:
Arizona Outdoor Worker Toolkit
California’s Heat Illness Prevention E-Tool
CDC/ NIOSH Heat Stress Information and Posters
OSHA Guidance
Employers Council members are welcome to contact us today with questions.
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