Cal/OSHA has recently adopted new regulations on indoor heat illness prevention, which apply to any indoor work environment where the temperature equals or exceeds 82 degrees Fahrenheit when employees are present. While there are some exemptions, such as remote workers and certain facilities like prisons, these regulations are broad in scope and come with significant requirements for employers. The new regulations took effect August 1, 2024.
Key Requirements to Note
1. Written Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Plan (HIPP):
Employers are now required to create a written plan specifically for indoor heat illness prevention. This plan can be integrated into existing plans like the Injury Illness Prevention Plan or Heat Illness Prevention Plan, or it can stand alone. The HIPP must detail procedures for access to cool-down areas, emergency response, and provision of water.
2. Provision of Water and Cool-Down Areas:
Employers must ensure employees have access to potable, cool, and fresh water at all times, as well as designated cool-down areas. These areas must be available whenever employees are present, and employees should be allowed to take preventative cool-down breaks as needed.
3. Acclimatization:
In cases where temperature control through engineering measures isn’t feasible, employers must monitor employees closely during heatwaves to prevent heat illness.
4. Assessment and Control Measures:
Employers are required to routinely measure and record indoor temperatures or heat indexes, implementing necessary control measures to minimize heat illness risk.
5. Employee Training:
Extensive training must be provided to both supervisory and non-supervisory employees before they are exposed to conditions that might lead to heat illness. This training should cover all aspects of the regulations.
6. Emergency Response Procedures:
Employers must have robust emergency response procedures, including effective communication methods, responses to heat illness symptoms, and clear instructions for contacting emergency services.