Navigating Cal/OSHA’s New Indoor Heat Prevention Standard
On July 23, 2024, California’s Office of Administrative Law gave the green light to the state's Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment standard. This regulation is designed to safeguard employees from extreme indoor heat. Now in effect, it applies to the majority of indoor workplaces, mandating employers to implement safety measures when indoor temperatures hit 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Here's a breakdown of what this means and how Rising Tide HR can assist in policy creation and HR management:
Key Requirements of the Indoor Heat Standard
Workplace Environment Controls: Employers must implement solutions like air conditioning or increased ventilation to reduce the indoor temperature and heat index. The goal is to maintain:
Below 87 degrees Fahrenheit when employees are present.
Below 82 degrees Fahrenheit in areas with high-radiant heat or where employees must wear protective clothing.
Access to Cool Resources: Employees must have access to clean and adequately cool drinking water and designated "cool-down" areas that stay under 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Emergency Response Procedures: Employers must establish effective emergency response procedures, such as contacting emergency medical services, providing basic first aid, and monitoring employees for symptoms of heat illness.
Close Observation of Employees:
For the first 14 days when acclimating to a new work area with temperatures or heat indexes reaching 87 degrees Fahrenheit (or 82 degrees in high-radiant heat areas or when wearing restrictive clothing).
During a heatwave when no workplace environmental controls are in use.
Heat Illness Prevention Plan: Employers are required to keep a written heat illness prevention plan and ensure that both employees and supervisors are properly trained on how to implement it effectively.
How Rising Tide HR Can Help
At Rising Tide HR, we understand the complexities of complying with new standards and regulations. Our team is here to support you in creating robust policies and managing your HR needs to ensure compliance and protect your workforce. Here’s how we can assist:
Policy Creation: We help draft and implement comprehensive heat illness prevention plans tailored to your workplace.
Training Programs: Our training programs for workers and supervisors ensure everyone knows how to recognize and respond to heat-related illnesses.
Ongoing Support: We provide continuous support and guidance to help you adapt to any changes in regulations and maintain a safe work environment.
Stay ahead of the curve and ensure the well-being of your employees with support from Rising Tide HR. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in navigating these new requirements and more!
