The new rule will require that employers monitor and control worker exposure to heat. It will also require that supervisors and workers receive annual training on the warning signs of heat stress, how to respond to an emergency, and how to take preventive measures. Special attention will need to be given to acclimatization, rest and water breaks, and relocating tasks to cooler areas. Employers will need to deploy regular audits and develop a compliance plan for meeting the new requirements. They may also have to provide enhanced protections for vulnerable groups, such as temporary and seasonal workers, acclimatized workers, and immigrant workers.

Workplace Heat Safety Guide: Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Ensure that workers have access to plenty of shade and cooling areas, as well as a safe place to take breaks. Encourage them to drink water frequently and avoid alcohol or caffeine-containing drinks. Workers should change clothing when it gets saturated and be sure to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. They should be aware that working too hard in hot temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion. Instruct them to slow down and pace themselves, and to get medical help if they show signs of heat stroke or severe heat exhaustion.

Workplace Heat Safety Guide, including medical conditions, lack of physical fitness, previous episodes of heat-related illness, and certain medications and drugs. Employers don’t have to determine an employee’s individual risk factor but should inform workers about the potential impact of these factors on their ability to acclimatize to the job environment.