Construction employers across California are being reminded to reinforce heat illness prevention measures as state and federal weather agencies forecast dangerous temperatures across multiple regions. Cal/OSHA has issued a statewide advisory emphasizing employers' legal responsibilities to protect workers from heat-related illnesses in both indoor and outdoor work environments.
Cal/OSHA noted that outdoor employers must provide workers with fresh drinking water, access to shade and cool-down rest periods to reduce the risk of heat illness. Shade must be available when temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and workers may request cool-down breaks whenever needed.
For construction and other industries covered by California's high-heat requirements, additional protective measures become mandatory when outdoor temperatures reach or exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These measures include enhanced worker observation, emergency communication procedures and monitoring for signs of heat-related illness.
The agency also reminded employers that written heat illness prevention plans and employee training are required under state regulations.
Heat protection requirements also apply to many indoor work environments, including warehouses and manufacturing facilities. When indoor temperatures reach 82 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must implement measures such as providing drinking water, cool-down areas, rest opportunities and worker training.
According to weather forecasts cited by Cal/OSHA, portions of Central and Southern California are expected to experience temperatures ranging from 90 to more than 110 degrees Fahrenheit under current heat advisories, watches and warnings.
Extreme heat remains one of the leading seasonal safety hazards for construction and industrial employers. Compliance with California's heat illness prevention standards helps contractors reduce worker health risks, avoid regulatory violations and maintain safe jobsite operations during periods of elevated temperatures.
Source: DIR State Of California.
