As summer begins in North America, an intense “heat dome” is expected to impact more than half of the US population this week. Some areas, such as Montpelier, Vermont; Syracuse, New York; and Pittsburgh, are facing heat levels not seen in about three decades.
With the rising temperatures come risks of heat-related conditions such as dehydration, heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. It is important to take precautions to stay cool not only at home but also at work.
Under the federal law that established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers are required to keep workplaces free of known hazards, including heat-related risks. While there is no specific federal regulation mandating how employers must prevent heat illness in the workplace, employers are expected to take reasonable actions to protect their employees from such risks.
Factors such as humidity, lack of shade, poor air circulation, and pre-existing health conditions can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for workers. Both OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health provide recommendations for employers to follow in order to keep workers safe during hot weather.
Recommendations include having a heat illness prevention plan, providing easy access to water, allowing regular rest breaks in a shaded area, monitoring workers for signs of heat illness, and encouraging employees to dress appropriately for the heat. Employers may also consider adjusting work hours to reduce exposure to extreme temperatures.
If employees believe their employer is not providing a safe work environment, they can file a confidential complaint with OSHA. The agency has announced plans for enhanced enforcement actions to ensure that employers take necessary steps to protect workers from hazardous heat conditions. Employees are encouraged to speak up about potential hazards without fear of retaliation.
