Employers and workers need to prepare for hot temperatures through planning, training, and other measures.

Workers unprepared for outdoor heat have an increased risk for heat-related illnesses including heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke. Drinking enough water and taking preventative cool-down breaks in the shade can help workers prevent heat illness.

The rules and resources on this page can help employers plan, prepare, and train for heat illness prevention.

Outdoor Heat Exposure Rules

• General industry: WAC 296-62-095 through 09560
• Agriculture: WAC 296-307-097 through 09760
• Firefighters/Fire Departments: WAC 296-305-05004
• Wildland Firefighters: WAC 296-305-07004
• Ambient Heat Exposure Rulemaking Stakeholder Information.

Current Outdoor Heat Exposure rules include requirements to:

• Address outdoor heat exposure safety as part of your required Accident Prevention Program.
• Provide annual training to employees and supervisors on symptoms of outdoor heat exposure and policies in place to prevent heat-related illness.
• Provide both a sufficient amount of cool drinking water to employees along with opportunities to drink the water.
• Provide adequate shade (or alternative cooling methods) at all times, to allow for access to prevent or respond to heat illness.
• Workers must be provided with paid rest breaks when they feel the need to cool down, so they don’t overheat. When temperatures are 90°F or hotter, require workers to take additional paid, cool down rest periods of at least 10 minutes every 2 hours. Longer and more frequent breaks are indicated when temperatures continue to rise to 100°F.
• Closely observe employees not acclimatized to the heat, including new employees, those returning from absences, and all workers during a heat wave.
• Have emergency procedures to respond appropriately to any employee with symptoms of heat-related illness.
• Make sure supervisors and employees always have a way to communicate with each other so they can promptly report heat illness and get medical assistance.

See the fact sheet "Permanent Changes to Outdoor Heat Exposure Rules" (F417-300-000) for more information.

Need help with your Outdoor Heat Exposure Program or Accident Prevention Program?

Contact an L&I Safety & Health consultant near you. We offer no-charge services and can answer questions you may have.

https://www.lni.wa.gov/safety-health/safety-training-materials/workshops-events/beheatsmart?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdeliveryClick here for more info.