Heat Illness Prevention - NES, Inc. · 14.03.2018 · Heat Illness Prevention Cal-OSHA Top 10...

Published by NES© NES, All Rights Reserved

NES, Inc.1141 Sibley Street, Folsom, CA 95630 (916) 353-2360 / 1-800-NES-ADVISE

Heat Illness PreventionStudent Resource Packet

Our Business Is Protecting Your BusinessNES has been a nationally recognized leader in occupational health and safety training and environmental and safety compliance consulting since 1987. We provide industrial hygiene consulting covering indoor air quality, mold, water damage, exposure to hazardous materials, and more. We deliver environmental compliance expertise on a variety of issues, including waste management and air and water quality assessments. NES offers training across a broad range of environmental, health, and safety issues. Our mission is to help our customers protect their employees, their assets, and the environment in a way that makes business sense.

Who We AreNES develops and provides training to satisfy OSHA, EPA, and DOT training requirements for government agencies, regulators, and private businesses throughout the United States. NES consistently participates in the annual CAL CUPA conference, providing hazardous waste classification and management training for regulators and the regulated community. NES’ professional staff members hold scientific degrees in a variety of professional registrations and maintain numerous certifications, including Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC), Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM), Registered Environmental Assessor (REA), Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS), CDPH-Lead/Assessor Certification, Registered Environmental Professional (REP), Certified Environmental Manager (CEM), Certified Environmental Inspector (CEI), Certified Indoor Environmentalist (CIE), Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (CPEA), and Environmental Assessment Consultant (EAC).

Why Our Clients Come BackWe work closely with our clients to offer cost-effective solutions to their health, safety, and environmental issues. When we train your staff, we make sure participants get the information they need in a practical and engaging manner so that they can do their job properly and safely. Whether we are providing consulting services or delivering training, our goal is to help you protect your employees, the environment, and your bottom line.

NES How We Can Help

NES, Inc.1141 Sibley Street, Folsom, California, 95630(916) 353-2360 or 1-800-637-2384

NES Is More Than Training

Other ServicesEnvironmental Compliance & ConsultingNES provides a range of environmental compliance and consulting services. These services include environmental audits, technical and regulatory advice, litigation support, hazardous waste treatment permitting, training, and environmental staffing.

Occupational Health & SafetyNES helps clients develop and maintain occupational health & safety programs that comply with federal and state regulations and protect worker safety. Services include work site evaluations, program gap analysis, exposure assessments, accident investigation and root cause analysis, and safety training.

Clandestine Laboratory Safety TrainingRecognized internationally as the leader in clandestine laboratory safety training, NES developed the first clandestine laboratory safety program in the United States on behalf of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. We have trained thousands of law enforcement personnel throughout the U.S. and abroad to safely and effectively dismantle different types of clandestine drug labs and to work in other illicit hazardous environments.

Hazardous Materials & Waste Management and Transportation SafetyNES provides hazardous materials & waste management and transportation safety consulting and training to a multitude of private industry and government entities. Our clients retain our services due to the scope of expertise we provide, which covers all aspects of hazardous materials & waste management, from handling and storage regulations compliance to the safe and compliant transportation of hazardous materials, materials of trade, and hazardous waste.

Industrial HygieneNES has conducted a wide range of industrial hygiene evaluations and assessments throughout California and across the U.S. The NES IH team is composed of staff members holding the following certifications: Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC), and California Department of Public Health Certified Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor (CDPH I/A).

We Also OfferCustomized On-Site Training

Client Specific Web Based Training

Open Enrollment Courses at our Folsom and Concord Training Centers

On-Line Training

Qualitative and Quantitative Respiratory Fit Testing

Visit our website NESglobal.net for training dates and a list of our on-line training courses.

NES, Inc.1141 Sibley Street, Folsom, California, 95630(916) 353-2360 or 1-800-637-2384

Heat Illness Prevention

Table of Contents

Presentation ............................................................................................................... 1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1 Signs & Symptoms ............................................................................................... 2 Title 8 CCR 3395 – Heat Illness ........................................................................... 5 Emergency Response Procedures ..................................................................... 10 Training .............................................................................................................. 11

8 CCR 3395: Heat Illness Prevention ...................................................................... 15 Employer Sample Procedures for Heat Illness Prevention ...................................... 21


N E S g l o b a l . n e t

Heat Illness PreventionTitle 8 California Code of Regulations §3395

Download Presentation Here:www.nesglobal.net/webinar-downloads

Objectives

• Cal-OSHA requires employers whose employees work in hot environments to prepare a written Heat Illness Prevention Program

• Employees are also required to receive training regarding heat illness and prevention

Outline• Signs & symptoms of heat related illnesses• Provisions regarding Title 8 California Code of

Regulations §3395– Access to water and shade– High-heat procedures– Emergency response procedures– Training requirements

• Questions

1 of 29


Signs & Symptoms

Heat Illness SusceptibilityFactors that can lead to heat illness:• Age• Weight• Physical fitness• Medical conditions• Use of alcohol or drugs• Type of clothing / personal protective

equipment use

Heat Fatigue• Impaired performance• Caused by lack of proper acclimatization to the

environment• No treatment for heat fatigue except to remove

individual from the hot environment• At first sign of heat fatigue, remove employee

from hot environment before a more serious condition develops

2 of 29


Heat Rash

• Most common problem in hot work environments

• Rashes typically appear where clothing is restrictive and at areas of unevaporated sweat

• Heat rashes typically disappear when individual is moved to a cool environment

Heat Cramps• Can result from hard physical labor in a hot

environment• Caused by heavy sweating and inadequate

electrolyte replacement• Signs to look for include muscle spasms and

pain in the extremities, such as the hands and feet, and in the abdomen

• To minimize heat cramps, replace electrolytes

Heat Exhaustion• Caused by increased stress on various parts of the body, including

inadequate blood circulation due to cardiovascular insufficiency or dehydration

• Employees suffering from heat exhaustion should be immediately removed from hot the environment, replace fluids, and rest

• Symptoms include:– Headache– Thirst– Fainting– Weakness– Nausea– Vertigo

3 of 29


Heat Stroke• Temperature regulation fails and the body temperature rises to

critical levels – this is the most serious of all temperature related disorders or conditions

• Immediate action should be taken to cool the body before serious injury or death occurs

• Signs to look for include:– Red, hot, usually dry skin– No perspiration– Difficulty breathing, rapid pulse– Dizziness, confusion, nausea– Body temperature > 105 °F

Heat StrokeIf an employee shows signs of heat stroke:• Immediately seek medical attention• Place affected employee in shade and remove

outer clothing• Wet skin and increase air movement (fan)• Provide fluids, if responsive• NEVER LEAVE SOMEONE WITH HEAT

STROKE UNATTENDED

Heat Stress

• Worker training is an essential element of an effective extreme temperature program

• Workers who are able to identify the symptoms of early heat stress will be able to prevent heat related disorders or conditions and possible death to themselves and their fellow workers

4 of 29


HydrationThe best way to avoid heat stroke and other heat disorders is to keep your body well hydrated. Drink a lot of water if you are exercising or working in hot conditions. Doctors usually recommend consuming eight or more glasses of water per day.

VentilationRemain in cool areas where your body can cool itself. If working in hot conditions, try to take a break to regain energy and to avoid overexposure to the sun.

ClothingWhat you wear plays a big factor in how your body handles the heat. Light and loose-fitting clothing will help your body to breathe and cool itself.

General Precautions

General Precautions• Limit yourself • Don’t overdo it

– Heat stroke and other disorders can take effect in less than an hour – if you feel warm or dizzy, it’s best to take time to rest

• Ask: are you fit to work during summer?• Older employees, obese employees, new

employees, and personnel on medication are at great risk if they decide to work during very hot and/or humid conditions

Title 8 CCR 3395 – Heat Illness

5 of 29


Cal-OSHA Top 10 Citations – Construction – 2017

1. Heat illness written plan2. Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP)3. Code of safe practices4. First aid training5. Reporting a serious injury6. Code of safe practices (written)7. Fall protection8. Rebar caps/protection9. Employee training for heat illness10. First aid kits

Cal-OSHA Top 10 Citations – GISO – 2017

1. IIPP2. Heat Illness Prevention Plan3. Reporting a serious injury4. Hazard Communication Program5. Air tank permit6. IIPP – inspections7. Emergency eyewash and shower8. Energy control9. Fire extinguishers – providing10. Approved first aid kits

Heat Illness Prevention Elements

• Access to water and shade• High-heat procedures• Written procedures including emergency

response• Acclimatization procedures• Employee and supervisory training

6 of 29


Access to Water

• Cool, potable drinking water must be made available to all employees, free of charge, in sufficient quantities (i.e., enough to provide at least one quart per employee per hour for the entire shift)

• This approximates to 2 gallons of water per person for an 8-hour shift

Access to Water

• OSHA requires companies to implement and maintain effective replenishment procedures when beginning a shift with quantities of drinking water less than what will be needed to get through the entire shift

• This should be documented to prove that there is a plan in place in case OSHA performs an on-site evaluation

Access to Water

• Locate water containers as close as practicable given the working conditions and layout of the worksite

• Keep water readily accessible – move it with the workers

• Encourage the frequent drinking of water

7 of 29


Shade

• Definition: blockage of direct sunlight• Shade is not adequate when heat in the

area of shade defeats the purpose of shade

• Shade may be provided by any natural or artificial means that does not expose employees to unsafe conditions or discourage access

Access to shadeShade shall be:• Present when the temperature exceeds 80

degrees Fahrenheit• At least enough to accommodate the number of

employees on recovery or rest periods• Located as close as practicable to the work

area

Shade Structures

The amount of shade present shall be at least enough to accommodate the number of employees on recovery or rest periods and be designed such that the employees can sit in a normal posture, fully in the shade, without having to be in physical contact with each other.

8 of 29


Access to Shade

• When an employee shows signs or symptoms of heat stress, a cool-down rest in the shade, for a period of no less than 5 minutes, is required

• Shaded areas must not cause exposure to another health or safety hazard

• Areas underneath mobile equipment (e.g., non A/C van) or areas that require crouching in order to sit fully in the shade are not acceptable

When Temperature Equals or Exceeds 95 F

High-heat procedures:

1. Ensure effective communication (by voice, observation, or electronic means)

2. Observe employees for alertness and signs & symptoms of heat illness

When Temperature Equals or Exceeds 95 F

High-heat procedures (cont.):

3. Designate one or more employees on each worksite as authorized to call for emergency medical services, and allow other employees to call for emergency services when no designated employee is available

4. Remind employees throughout the work shift to drink plenty of water

5. Hold pre-shift meetings before the commencement of work to review the high-heat procedures, encourage employees to drink plenty of water, and remind employees of their right to take a cool-down rest when necessary

9 of 29


Emergency Response Procedures


1. Ensure that effective communication by voice, observation, or electronic means is maintained so that employees at the work site can contact a supervisor or emergency medical services

2. Determine protocol for responding to possible heat illness and how EMS will be provided


3. Determine protocol for contacting emergency medical services and, if necessary, transporting employees to a place where they can be reached by an emergency medical provider

4. Ensure clear and precise directions to the work site can and will be provided as needed

10 of 29


Acclimatization

• Employers are responsible for the working conditions of their employees and so must act effectively when conditions result in sudden exposure to heat that workers are not used to

• Thus, the employer must determine how the company will:– Lessen the intensity and/or shift length of newly hired employees’

work during a two-week (or longer) break-in period

– During the hot summer months, modify the work schedule or reschedule non-essential duties

– Be extra vigilant with employees to immediately recognize symptoms of possible heat illness

Training

TrainingTraining must cover the following topics:• Prevention of heat illness• Procedures for complying with standard• Hydration• Acclimatization procedures• Signs & symptoms of heat illness• Reporting heat illness • Emergency procedures

11 of 29


Supervisor Training

In addition to previously mentioned elements:

• Supervisors are to track the weather of the job site by monitoring predicted temperature highs

• Use weather information to modify work schedule, increase number of water and rest breaks, and/or cease work early if necessary

Written Procedures

• Heat Illness Prevention Plan may be integrated into your Injury Illness Prevention Program

• Maintain Plan procedures on-site or close to the site so that they can be made available to employees

Written Procedures

Detail how your company will:• Provide access to water & shade• Institute high-heat procedures and address

acclimatization procedures• Train all employees and supervisors• Respond to heat illnesses without delay;

provide first aid and emergency services

12 of 29


ReferencesCal-OSHA – Regulations

https://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/3395.html

Sample Procedureshttp://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/dosh_publications/ESPHIP.pdf

Heat Illness Prevention Pagehttps://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/heatillnessinfo.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Heat Stresshttps://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/

Thank You

Q u e s t i o n s ?Co n t a c t I n s t r u c t o r O m a r De G u z m a n :

o d e g u z m a n @ n e s g l o b a l . n e t

N E S , I n c .11 4 1 S i b l e y S t r e e tF o l s o m , C A 9 5 6 3 0

D o w n l o a d P r e s e n t a t i o n H e r e :w w w.n e s g l o b a l . n e t / w e b i n a r - d o w n l o a d s

N E S g l o b a l . n e t9 1 6 - 3 5 3 - 2 3 6 08 0 0 - 6 3 7 - 2 3 8 4

13 of 29

14 of 29

3/13/2018 California Code of Regulations, Title 8,section 3395 Heat Illness Prevention.

https://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/3395.html 1/6

This information is provided free of charge by the Department of Industrial Relations from its web site at www.dir.ca.gov. These regulations are forthe convenience of the user and no representation or warranty is made that the information is current or accurate. See full disclaimer athttp://www.dir.ca.gov/od_pub/disclaimer.html.

Subchapter 7. General Industry Safety Orders Group 2. Safe Practices and Personal Protection Article 10. Personal Safety Devices and Safeguards

Return to index New query

§3395. Heat Illness Prevention

Heat Illness Info

(a) Scope and Application.

(1) This standard applies to all outdoor places of employment.

EXCEPTION: If an industry is not listed in subsection (a)(2), employers in that industry are not required tocomply with subsection (e), High-heat procedures.

(2) List of industries subject to all provisions of this standard, including subsection (e):

(A) Agriculture

(B) Construction

(C) Landscaping

(D) Oil and gas extraction

(E) Transportation or delivery of agricultural products, construction materials or other heavy materials (e.g.furniture, lumber, freight, cargo, cabinets, industrial or commercial materials), except for employment thatconsists of operating an air-conditioned vehicle and does not include loading or unloading.

(3) This section applies to the control of risk of occurrence of heat illness. This is not intended to exclude theapplication of other sections of Title 8, including, but not necessarily limited to, sections 1512, 1524, 3203,3363, 3400, 3439, 3457, 6251, 6512, 6969, 6975, 8420 and 8602(e).

NOTE NO. 1: The measures required here may be integrated into the employer's written Injury and IllnessProgram required by section 3203, or maintained in a separate document.

NOTE NO. 2: This standard is enforceable by the Division of Occupational Safety and Health pursuant to LaborCode sections 6308 and 6317 and any other statutes conferring enforcement powers upon the Division. It is aviolation of Labor Code sections 6310, 6311, and 6312 to discharge or discriminate in any other manner againstemployees for exercising their rights under this or any other provision offering occupational safety and healthprotection to employees.

(b) Definitions.

15 of 29

https://www.dir.ca.gov/

https://www.dir.ca.gov/od_pub/disclaimer.html

https://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/index/T8index.asp

https://www.dir.ca.gov/samples/search/query.htm

https://www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/HeatIllnessInfo.html



“Acclimatization” means temporary adaptation of the body to work in the heat that occurs gradually when aperson is exposed to it. Acclimatization peaks in most people within four to fourteen days of regular work for atleast two hours per day in the heat.

“Heat Illness” means a serious medical condition resulting from the body's inability to cope with a particular heatload, and includes heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat syncope and heat stroke.

“Environmental risk factors for heat illness” means working conditions that create the possibility that heat illnesscould occur, including air temperature, relative humidity, radiant heat from the sun and other sources, conductiveheat sources such as the ground, air movement, workload severity and duration, protective clothing and personalprotective equipment worn by employees.

“Landscaping” means providing landscape care and maintenance services and/or installing trees, shrubs, plants,lawns, or gardens, or providing these services in conjunction with the design of landscape plans and/or theconstruction (i.e., installation) of walkways, retaining walls, decks, fences, ponds, and similar structures, exceptfor employment by an employer who operates a fixed establishment where the work is to be performed and wheredrinking water is plumbed.

“Oil and gas extraction” means operating and/or developing oil and gas field properties, exploring for crudepetroleum or natural gas, mining or extracting of oil or gas or recovering liquid hydrocarbons from oil or gas fieldgases.

“Personal risk factors for heat illness” means factors such as an individual's age, degree of acclimatization, health,water consumption, alcohol consumption, caffeine consumption, and use of prescription medications that affectthe body's water retention or other physiological responses to heat.

“Shade” means blockage of direct sunlight. One indicator that blockage is sufficient is when objects do not cast ashadow in the area of blocked sunlight. Shade is not adequate when heat in the area of shade defeats the purposeof shade, which is to allow the body to cool. For example, a car sitting in the sun does not provide acceptableshade to a person inside it, unless the car is running with air conditioning. Shade may be provided by any naturalor artificial means that does not expose employees to unsafe or unhealthy conditions and that does not deter ordiscourage access or use.

“Temperature” means the dry bulb temperature in degrees Fahrenheit obtainable by using a thermometer tomeasure the outdoor temperature in an area where there is no shade. While the temperature measurement must betaken in an area with full sunlight, the bulb or sensor of the thermometer should be shielded while taking themeasurement, e.g., with the hand or some other object, from direct contact by sunlight.

(c) Provision of water. Employees shall have access to potable drinking water meeting the requirements ofSections 1524, 3363, and 3457, as applicable, including but not limited to the requirements that it be fresh, pure,suitably cool, and provided to employees free of charge. The water shall be located as close as practicable to theareas where employees are working. Where drinking water is not plumbed or otherwise continuously supplied, itshall be provided in sufficient quantity at the beginning of the work shift to provide one quart per employee perhour for drinking for the entire shift. Employers may begin the shift with smaller quantities of water if they haveeffective procedures for replenishment during the shift as needed to allow employees to drink one quart or moreper hour. The frequent drinking of water, as described in subsection (h)(1)(C), shall be encouraged.

(d) Access to shade.

(1) Shade shall be present when the temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When the outdoortemperature in the work area exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the employer shall have and maintain one ormore areas with shade at all times while employees are present that are either open to the air or providedwith ventilation or cooling. The amount of shade present shall be at least enough to accommodate thenumber of employees on recovery or rest periods, so that they can sit in a normal posture fully in the shadewithout having to be in physical contact with each other. The shade shall be located as close as practicable tothe areas where employees are working. Subject to the same specifications, the amount of shade present

16 of 29



during meal periods shall be at least enough to accommodate the number of employees on the meal periodwho remain onsite.

(2) Shade shall be available when the temperature does not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When the outdoortemperature in the work area does not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit employers shall either provide shade asper subsection (d)(1) or provide timely access to shade upon an employee's request.

(3) Employees shall be allowed and encouraged to take a preventative cool-down rest in the shade when theyfeel the need to do so to protect themselves from overheating. Such access to shade shall be permitted at alltimes. An individual employee who takes a preventative cool-down rest (A) shall be monitored and asked ifhe or she is experiencing symptoms of heat illness; (B) shall be encouraged to remain in the shade; and (C)shall not be ordered back to work until any signs or symptoms of heat illness have abated, but in no eventless than 5 minutes in addition to the time needed to access the shade.

(4) If an employee exhibits signs or reports symptoms of heat illness while taking a preventative cool-downrest or during a preventative cool-down rest period, the employer shall provide appropriate first aid oremergency response according to subsection (f) of this section.

Exceptions to subsections (d)(1) and (d)(2):

(1) Where the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or unsafe to have a shade structure, or otherwiseto have shade present on a continuous basis, the employer may utilize alternative procedures for providingaccess to shade if the alternative procedures provide equivalent protection.

(2) Except for employers in the agricultural industry, cooling measures other than shade (e.g., use of mistingmachines) may be provided in lieu of shade if the employer can demonstrate that these measures are at leastas effective as shade in allowing employees to cool.

(e) High-heat procedures. The employer shall implement high-heat procedures when the temperature equals orexceeds 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These procedures shall include the following to the extent practicable:

(1) Ensuring that effective communication by voice, observation, or electronic means is maintained so thatemployees at the work site can contact a supervisor when necessary. An electronic device, such as a cellphone or text messaging device, may be used for this purpose only if reception in the area is reliable.

(2) Observing employees for alertness and signs or symptoms of heat illness. The employer shall ensureeffective employee observation/monitoring by implementing one or more of the following:

(A) Supervisor or designee observation of 20 or fewer employees, or

(B) Mandatory buddy system, or

(C) Regular communication with sole employee such as by radio or cellular phone, or

(D) Other effective means of observation.

(3) Designating one or more employees on each worksite as authorized to call for emergency medicalservices, and allowing other employees to call for emergency services when no designated employee isavailable.

(4) Reminding employees throughout the work shift to drink plenty of water.

(5) Pre-shift meetings before the commencement of work to review the high heat procedures, encourageemployees to drink plenty of water, and remind employees of their right to take a cool-down rest whennecessary.

(6) For employees employed in agriculture, the following shall also apply:

17 of 29



When temperatures reach 95 degrees or above, the employer shall ensure that the employee takes a minimum tenminute net preventative cool-down rest period every two hours. The preventative cool-down rest period requiredby this paragraph may be provided concurrently with any other meal or rest period required by Industrial WelfareCommission Order No. 14 (8 CCR 11140) if the timing of the preventative cool-down rest period coincides with arequired meal or rest period thus resulting in no additional preventative cool-down rest period required in an eighthour workday. If the workday will extend beyond eight hours, then an additional preventative cool-down restperiod will be required at the conclusion of the eighth hour of work; and if the workday extends beyond ten hours,then another preventative cool-down rest period will be required at the conclusion of the tenth hour and so on. Forpurposes of this section, preventative cool-down rest period has the same meaning as “recovery period” in LaborCode Section 226.7(a).

(f) Emergency Response Procedures. The Employer shall implement effective emergency response proceduresincluding:

(1) Ensuring that effective communication by voice, observation, or electronic means is maintained so thatemployees at the work site can contact a supervisor or emergency medical services when necessary. Anelectronic device, such as a cell phone or text messaging device, may be used for this purpose only ifreception in the area is reliable. If an electronic device will not furnish reliable communication in the workarea, the employer will ensure a means of summoning emergency medical services.

(2) Responding to signs and symptoms of possible heat illness, including but not limited to first aid measuresand how emergency medical services will be provided.

(A) If a supervisor observes, or any employee reports, any signs or symptoms of heat illness in anyemployee, the supervisor shall take immediate action commensurate with the severity of the illness.

(B) If the signs or symptoms are indicators of severe heat illness (such as, but not limited to, decreased levelof consciousness, staggering, vomiting, disorientation, irrational behavior or convulsions), the employermust implement emergency response procedures.

(C) An employee exhibiting signs or symptoms of heat illness shall be monitored and shall not be left aloneor sent home without being offered onsite first aid and/or being provided with emergency medical services inaccordance with the employer's procedures.

(3) Contacting emergency medical services and, if necessary, transporting employees to a place where theycan be reached by an emergency medical provider.

(4) Ensuring that, in the event of an emergency, clear and precise directions to the work site can and will beprovided as needed to emergency responders.

(g) Acclimatization.

(1) All employees shall be closely observed by a supervisor or designee during a heat wave. For purposes ofthis section only, “heat wave” means any day in which the predicted high temperature for the day will be atleast 80 degrees Fahrenheit and at least ten degrees Fahrenheit higher than the average high dailytemperature in the preceding five days.

(2) An employee who has been newly assigned to a high heat area shall be closely observed by a supervisoror designee for the first 14 days of the employee's employment.

(h) Training.

(1) Employee training. Effective training in the following topics shall be provided to each supervisory andnon-supervisory employee before the employee begins work that should reasonably be anticipated to resultin exposure to the risk of heat illness:

18 of 29



(A) The environmental and personal risk factors for heat illness, as well as the added burden of heat load onthe body caused by exertion, clothing, and personal protective equipment.

(B) The employer's procedures for complying with the requirements of this standard, including, but notlimited to, the employer's responsibility to provide water, shade, cool-down rests, and access to first aid aswell as the employees' right to exercise their rights under this standard without retaliation.

(C) The importance of frequent consumption of small quantities of water, up to 4 cups per hour, when thework environment is hot and employees are likely to be sweating more than usual in the performance of theirduties.

(D) The concept, importance, and methods of acclimatization pursuant to the employer's procedures undersubsection (i)(4).

(E) The different types of heat illness, the common signs and symptoms of heat illness, and appropriate firstaid and/or emergency responses to the different types of heat illness, and in addition, that heat illness mayprogress quickly from mild symptoms and signs to serious and life threatening illness.

(F) The importance to employees of immediately reporting to the employer, directly or through theemployee's supervisor, symptoms or signs of heat illness in themselves, or in co-workers.

(G) The employer's procedures for responding to signs or symptoms of possible heat illness, including howemergency medical services will be provided should they become necessary.

(H) The employer's procedures for contacting emergency medical services, and if necessary, for transportingemployees to a point where they can be reached by an emergency medical service provider.

(I) The employer's procedures for ensuring that, in the event of an emergency, clear and precise directions tothe work site can and will be provided as needed to emergency responders. These procedures shall includedesignating a person to be available to ensure that emergency procedures are invoked when appropriate.

(2) Supervisor training. Prior to supervising employees performing work that should reasonably beanticipated to result in exposure to the risk of heat illness effective training on the following topics shall beprovided to the supervisor:

(A) The information required to be provided by section (h)(1) above.

(B) The procedures the supervisor is to follow to implement the applicable provisions in this section.

(C) The procedures the supervisor is to follow when an employee exhibits signs or reports symptomsconsistent with possible heat illness, including emergency response procedures.

(D) How to monitor weather reports and how to respond to hot weather advisories.

(i) Heat Illness Prevention Plan. The employer shall establish, implement, and maintain, an effective heat illnessprevention plan. The plan shall be in writing in both English and the language understood by the majority of theemployees and shall be made available at the worksite to employees and to representatives of the Division uponrequest. The Heat Illness Prevention Plan may be included as part of the employer's Illness and Injury PreventionProgram required by section 3203, and shall, at a minimum, contain:

(1) Procedures for the provision of water and access to shade.

(2) The high heat procedures referred to in subsection (e).

(3) Emergency Response Procedures in accordance with subsection (f).

(4) Acclimatization methods and procedures in accordance with subsection (g).

19 of 29



Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.

HISTORY

1. New section filed 8-22-2005 as an emergency; operative 8-22-2005 (Register 2005, No. 34). A Certificate ofCompliance must be transmitted to OAL by 12-20-2005 or emergency language will be repealed by operation oflaw on the following day.

2. New section refiled 12-20-2005 as an emergency; operative 12-20-2005 (Register 2005, No. 51). A Certificateof Compliance must be transmitted to OAL by 4-19-2006 or emergency language will be repealed by operation oflaw on the following day.

3. New section refiled 4-19-2006 as an emergency; operative 4-19-2006 (Register 2006, No. 16). A Certificate ofCompliance must be transmitted to OAL by 8-17-2006 or emergency language will be repealed by operation oflaw on the following day.

4. Certificate of Compliance as to 4-19-2006 order, including amendment of section heading and section,transmitted to OAL 6-16-2006 and filed 7-27-2006 (Register 2006, No. 30).

5. Amendment filed 10-5-2010; operative 11-4-2010 (Register 2010, No. 41).

6. Amendment filed 4-3-2015; operative 5-1-2015 pursuant to Government Code section 11343.4(b)(3) (Register2015, No. 14).

Go Back to Article 10 Table of Contents

20 of 29

https://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/sb7g2a10.html

California employers with any outdoor places of employment must comply with the Heat Illness Prevention Standard - Title 8 California Code of Regulations (T8 CCR) Section 3395. These procedures have been created as a guide to assist employers in crafting their own heat illness prevention procedures, and to reduce the risk of work related heat illnesses among their employees.

These procedures are not intended to supersede or replace the application of any other T8 CCR sections, particularly T8 CCR 3203 Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). T8 CCR 3203 requires an employer to establish, implement, and maintain an effective IIPP. The measures listed here may be integrated into the Employer’s Injury and Illness Prevention Program. The employer must also be aware that other standards apply to Heat Illness Prevention such as the requirement to provide for drinking water, first aid and emergency response.

Please note: These procedures describe the minimal steps applicable to most outdoor work settings and are essential to reducing the incidence of heat related illnesses. In working environments with a higher risk for heat illness (e.g., during a heat wave, or other severe working or environmental conditions), it is the employer’s duty to exercise greater caution and additional protective measures beyond what is listed in this document, as needed to protect their employees.

To effectively establish your company procedures, carefully review the key elements listed on this document, as well as the examples provided, then develop written procedures applicable to your workplace. The Heat Illness Prevention Plan must be written in English and the language understood by the majority of the employees and must be available at the worksite. Implement and train employees and supervisors on your company procedures and follow-up to ensure your procedures are fulfilled.

Furthermore, to successfully tailor these procedures to your work activities, evaluate and consider the individual conditions present at your site (such as, but not limited to):

(1) Size of the crew (2) The length of the work-shift (3) The ambient temperature (which can be taken either with the aid of a simple thermometer or by

monitoring the weather) (4) The presence of personal protective equipment or additional sources of heat

Again, these sample procedures do not include every workplace scenario, so it is crucial that your company evaluate and take into account conditions found in your individual workplace that are likely to cause a heat illness.

Mandatory - Requirements for written procedures must also:

1. Identify the designated person(s) that has been assigned the applicable task(s) (e.g. supervisor, foreman, safety coordinator, crew leader).

2. Provide specific details required to carry out the task and ensure that the task is accomplished

EMPLOYER SAMPLE PROCEDURES FOR HEAT ILLNESS PREVENTION

May 2015

21 of 29

http://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/3395.html




2

successfully (e.g. how many water containers/shade structures, of what size, distance to placement, frequency of water-level replenishment/weather-tracking/water breaks/reminders, etc.). For additional information, see the Enforcement Q&A.

3. Specify how these procedures will be communicated to your employees and in particular to the persons assigned these responsibilities (e.g. via training, meeting), and how it will be ascertained that these company instructions and procedures are followed.

( EMPLOYER’S NAME)

The following designated person or persons (Program Administrator Safety Coordinator/ Supervisor/Foreman/Field Supervisor/Crew Leader) have the authority and responsibility for implementing the provisions of this program at this worksite.

Name/Title/Phone Number

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Note: Any of the following items applicable for the provision of water, shade, high heat, acclimatization methods and emergency procedures must have additional language added to provide specifics on how your company intends on implementing these provisions at the job site.

Sample Procedures to Consider for the Provision of Water (include but are not limited to the following):

Drinking water containers (of five to 10 gallons each) will be brought to the site, so that at least two quarts per employee are available at the start of the shift. All workers whether working individually or

in smaller crews, will have access to drinking water.

Paper cone rims or bags of disposable cups and the necessary cup dispensers will be made available to workers and will be kept clean until used.

As part of the Effective Replenishment Procedures, the water level of all containers will be checked periodically (e.g. every hour, every 30 min), and more frequently when the temperature rises. Water

22 of 29

http://www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/heatIllnessQA.html


3

containers will be refilled with cool water, when the water level within a container drops below 50 percent. Additional water containers (e.g. five gallon bottles) will be carried, to replace water as needed.

Water will be fresh, pure, and suitably cool and provided to employees free of charge. Supervisors

will visually examine the water and pour some on their skin to insure that the water is suitably cool. During hot weather, the water must be cooler than the ambient temperature but not so cool as to cause discomfort.

Water containers will be located as close as practicable to the areas where employees are working (given the working conditions and layout of the worksite), to encourage the frequent drinking of

water. If field terrain prevents the water from being placed as close as possible to the workers, bottled water or personal water containers will be made available, so that workers can have drinking water readily accessible.

Since water containers are smaller than shade structures, they can be placed closer to employees

than shade structures. Placing water only in designated shade areas or where toilet facilities are located is not sufficient. When employees are working across large areas, water will be placed in multiple locations. For example, on a multi-story construction site, water should be placed in a safely accessible location on every floor where employees are working.

All water containers will be kept in sanitary condition. Water from non-approved or non-tested water

sources (e.g., untested wells) is not acceptable. If hoses or connections are used, they must be governmentally approved for potable drinking water systems, as shown on the manufactures label.

Daily, workers will be reminded of the location of the water coolers and of the importance of drinking

water frequently. When the temperature exceeds or is expected to exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, brief ‘tailgate’ meetings will be held each morning to review with employees the importance of drinking water, the number and schedule of water and rest breaks and the signs and symptoms of heat illness.

Audible devices (such as whistles or air horns) will be used to remind employees to drink water.

When the temperature equals or exceeds 95 degrees Fahrenheit or during a heat wave, pre-sift

meetings before the commencement of work to encourage employees to drink plenty of water, and remind employees of their right to take a cool-down rest when necessary will be conducted. Additionally, the number of water breaks will be increased. Supervisors/foreman will lead by example and workers will be reminded throughout the work shift to drink water.

Individual water containers or bottled water provided to workers will be adequately identified to

eliminate the possibility of drinking from a co-workers container or bottle.

23 of 29


4

Sample Procedures for Access to Shade (include but are not limited to the following):

Shade structures will be opened and placed as close as practical to the workers, when the temperature equals or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature is below 80 degrees

Fahrenheit, access to shade will be provided promptly, when requested by an employee.

Note: The interior of a vehicle may not be used to provide shade unless the vehicle is air-conditioned and the air conditioner is on.

Enough shade structures will be available at the site, to accommodate all of the employees who are on

such a break at any point in time. During meal periods there will be enough shade for all of the employees who choose to remain in the general area of work or in areas designated for recovery and rest periods. (Employers may rotate employees in and out of meal periods, as with recovery and rest periods.)

Daily, workers will be informed of the location of the shade structures and will be encouraged to take a

five minute cool-down rest in the shade. An employee who takes a preventative cool-down rest break will be monitored and asked if he/she is experiencing symptoms of heat illness and in no case will the employee be ordered back to work until signs or symptoms of heat illness have abated. (see also the section on Emergency Response for additional information)

Shade structures will be relocated to follow along with the crew and they will be placed as close as

practical to the employees, so that access to shade is provided at all times. All employees on a recovery, rest break or meal period will have full access to shade so they can sit in a normal posture without having to be in physical contact with each other.

In situations where trees or other vegetation are used to provide shade (such as in orchards), the

thickness and shape of the shaded area will be evaluated, before assuming that sufficient shadow is being cast to protect employees.

In situations where it is not safe or feasible to provide access to shade (e.g., during high winds), a note

will be made of these unsafe or unfeasible conditions, and of the steps that will be taken to provide shade upon request.

For non-agricultural employers, in situations where it is not safe or feasible to provide shade (mobile

equipment and vehicle hazards, high winds), a note will be made of these unsafe or unfeasible conditions, and of the steps that will be taken to provide alternative cooling measures but with equivalent protection as shade.

24 of 29


5

Sample Procedures for Monitoring the Weather (include but are not limited to):

The supervisor will be trained and instructed to check in advance the extended weather forecast.

Weather forecasts can be checked with the aid of the internet (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/), or by calling the National Weather Service phone numbers (see CA numbers below) or by checking the Weather Channel TV Network. The work schedule will be planned in advance, taking into consideration whether high temperatures or a heat wave is expected. This type of advance planning should take place all summer long.

CALIFORNIA Dial-A-Forecast

Prior to each workday, the forecasted temperature and humidity for the worksite will be reviewed and

will be compared against the National Weather Service Heat Index to evaluate the risk level for heat illness. Determination will be made of whether or not workers will be exposed at a temperature and humidity characterized as either “extreme caution” or “extreme danger” for heat illnesses. It is important to note that the temperature at which these warnings occur must be lowered as much as 15 degrees if the workers under consideration are in direct sunlight.

Prior to each workday, the supervisor will monitor the weather (using http://www.nws.noaa.gov/ or with

the aid of a simple thermometer, available at most hardware stores) at the worksite. This critical weather information will be taken into consideration, to determine, when it will be necessary to make modifications to the work schedule (such as stopping work early, rescheduling the job, working at night or during the cooler hours of the day, increasing the number of water and rest breaks).

A thermometer will be used at the jobsite to monitor for sudden increases in temperature, and to ensure

that once the temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit, shade structures will be opened and made available to the workers. In addition, when the temperature equals or exceeds 95 degrees Fahrenheit, additional preventive measures such as the High Heat Procedures will be implemented.

Sample Procedures for Handling a Heat Wave:

For purposes of this section only, “heat wave” means any day in which the predicted high temperature for the day will be at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit and at least ten degrees Fahrenheit higher than the average high daily temperature in the preceding five days.

During a heat wave or heat spike, the work day will be cut short or rescheduled (example conducted

at night or during cooler hours).

During a heat wave or heat spike, and before starting work, tailgate meetings will be held, to review the company heat illness prevention procedures, the weather forecast and emergency response. In

addition, if schedule modifications are not possible, workers will be provided with an increased number of water and rest breaks and will be observed closely for signs and symptoms of heat illness.

Each employee will be assigned a “buddy” to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of heat

illness and to ensure that emergency procedures are initiated when someone displays possible signs or symptoms of heat illness.

• Eureka 707-443-7062 • Hanford 559-584-8047 • Los Angeles 805-988-6610 (#1)

• Sacramento 916-979-3051 • San Diego 619-297-2107 (#1) • San Francisco 831-656-1725 (#1)

25 of 29

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/


6

Sample High Heat Procedures (include but are not limited to): High Heat Procedures are additional preventive measures that this company will use when the temperature equals or exceeds 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Effective communication by voice, direct observation (applicable for work crews of 20 or fewer), mandatory buddy system, or electronic means will be maintained, so that employees at the worksite can

contact a supervisor when necessary. If the supervisor is unable to be near the workers (to observe them or communicate with them), then an electronic device, such as a cell phone or text messaging device, may be used for this purpose if reception in the area is reliable.

Frequent communication will be maintained with employees working by themselves or in smaller groups

(keep tabs on them via phone or two-way radio), to be on the lookout for possible symptoms of heat illness. The employee(s) will be contacted regularly and as frequently as possible throughout the day, since an employee in distress may not be able to summon help on his or her own.

Effective communication and direct observation for alertness and/or signs and symptoms of heat illness

will be conducted frequently. When the supervisor is not available, a designated alternate responsible person must be assigned, to look for signs and symptoms of heat illness. If a supervisor, designated observer, or any employee reports any signs or symptoms of heat illness in any employee, the supervisor or designated person will take immediate action commensurate with the severity of the illness (see Emergency Response Procedures).

Employees will be reminded constantly throughout the work shift to drink plenty of water and take

preventative cool-down rest break when needed. In addition to the High Heat Procedures listed above, the following High Heat Procedures apply only to agricultural work sites.

When the temperature equals or exceeds 95 degrees, employees will be provided one 10 minute “preventative cool-down rest period” every 2 hours. (During the first 8 hours of a shift, the cool-down

periods may be provided at the same time as the rest periods already required by Industrial Welfare Commission Order No. 14.)

Employees working longer than 8 hours will be provided an additional 10 minute cool-down rest period

every 2 hours. (For example, if the shift extends beyond 8 hours, an additional rest period is required at the end of the 8th hour of work. If the shift extends beyond 10 hours, another is required and the end of the 10th hour, and so on.)

All employees will be required to take the cool-down rest periods and merely offering the opportunity for

a break is not enough.

Once the temperature equals or exceeds 95 degrees, records will be kept documenting the fact that mandatory cool-down rest periods are provided and taken.

26 of 29


7

Sample Procedures for Acclimatization (include but are not limited to):

Acclimatization is the temporary and gradual physiological change in the body that occurs when the environmentally induced heat load to which the body is accustomed is significantly and suddenly exceeded by sudden environmental changes. In more common terms, the body needs time to adapt when temperatures rise suddenly, and an employee risks heat illness by not taking it easy when a heat wave strikes or when starting a new job that exposes the employee to heat to which the employee’s body hasn’t yet adjusted.

Inadequate acclimatization can be significantly more perilous in conditions of high heat and physical stress. Employers are responsible for the working conditions of their employees, and they must act effectively when conditions result in sudden exposure to heat their employees are not used to.

The weather will be monitored daily. The supervisor will be on the lookout for sudden heat wave(s), or increases in temperatures to which employees haven’t been exposed to for several weeks or longer.

During a heat wave or heat spike, the work day will be cut short (example 12 p.m.), will be

rescheduled (example conducted at night or during cooler hours) or if at all possible cease for the day.

New employees, or those employees who have been newly assigned to a high heat area will be closely

observed by the supervisor or designee for the first 14 days. The intensity of the work will be lessened during a two-week break-in period (such as scheduling slower paced, less physically demanding work during the hot parts of the day and the heaviest work activities during the cooler parts of the day (early- morning or evening). Steps taken to lessen the intensity of the workload for new employees will be documented.

The supervisor, or the designee will be extra-vigilant with new employees and stay alert to the presence

of heat related symptoms.

New employees will be assigned a “buddy” or experienced coworker to watch each other closely for discomfort or symptoms of heat illness.

During a heat wave, all employees will be observed closely (or maintain frequent communication via

phone or radio), to be on the lookout for possible symptoms of heat illness.

Employees and supervisors will be trained on the importance of acclimatization, how it is developed and how these company procedures address it.

Sample Procedures for Emergency Response (include but are not limited to):

Prior to assigning a crew to a particular worksite, workers and the foreman will be provided a map of the site, along with clear and precise directions (such as streets or road names, distinguishing features and

distances to major roads), to avoid a delay of emergency medical services.

Prior to assigning a crew to a particular worksite, efforts will be made to ensure that a qualified and appropriately trained and equipped person is available at the site to render first aid if necessary.

27 of 29


8

Prior to the start of the shift, a determination will be made of whether or not a language barrier is present at the site and steps will be taken (such as assigning the responsibility to call emergency medical

services to the foreman or an English speaking worker) to ensure that emergency medical services can be immediately called in the event of an emergency.

All foremen and supervisors will carry cell phones or other means of communication, to ensure that

emergency medical services can be called. Checks will be made to ensure that these electronic devices are functional prior to each shift.

When an employee is showing symptoms of possible heat illness, steps will be taken immediately to

keep the stricken employee cool and comfortable once emergency service responders have been called (to reduce the progression to more serious illness). Under no circumstances will the affected employee be left unattended.

At remote locations such as rural farms, lots or undeveloped areas, the supervisor will designate an

employee or employees to physically go to the nearest road or highway where emergency responders can see them. If daylight is diminished, the designated employee(s) shall be given reflective vest or flashlights in order to direct emergency personnel to the location of the worksite, which may not be visible form the road or highway.

During a heat wave or hot temperatures, workers will be reminded and encouraged to immediately report

to their supervisor any signs or symptoms they are experiencing.

Employees and supervisors training will include every detail of these written emergency procedures.

Sample Procedures for Handling a Sick Employee:

When an employee displays possible signs or symptoms of heat illness, a trained first aid worker or supervisor will check the sick employee and determine whether resting in the shade and

drinking cool water will suffice or if emergency service providers will need to be called. A sick worker will not be left alone in the shade, as he or she can take a turn for the worse!

When an employee displays possible signs or symptoms of heat illness and no trained first aid worker or

supervisor is available at the site, emergency service providers will be called.

Emergency service providers will be called immediately if an employee displays signs or symptoms of heat illness (decreased level of consciousness, staggering, vomiting,

disorientation, irrational behavior, incoherent speech, convulsions, red and hot face), does not look OK or does not get better after drinking cool water and resting in the shade. While the ambulance is in route, first aid will be initiated (cool the worker: place the worker in the shade, remove excess layers of clothing, place ice pack in the armpits and groin area and fan the victim). Do not let a sick worker leave the site, as they can get lost or die before reaching a hospital!

If an employee does not look OK and displays signs or symptoms of severe heat illness (decreased

level of consciousness, staggering, vomiting, disorientation, irrational behavior, incoherent speech, convulsions, red and hot face), and the worksite is located more than 20 minutes away from a hospital, call emergency service providers, communicate the signs and symptoms of the victim and request Air Ambulance.

28 of 29


9

Sample Procedures for Employee and Supervisory Training (include but are not limited to):

To be effective, training must be understood by employees and given in a language the employees understand. All employers must maintain records of the training showing the date of training, who performed the training, who attended training and subject(s) covered.

Supervisors will be trained prior to being assigned to supervise other workers. Training will include this company’s written procedures and the steps supervisors will follow when employees’ exhibit symptoms

consistent with heat illness.

Supervisors will be trained on their responsibility to provide water, shade, cool-down rests, and access to first aid as well as the employees’ right to exercise their rights under this standard without retaliation.

Supervisors will be trained in appropriate first aid and/or emergency responses to different types of heat

illness, and in addition, that heat illness may progress quickly from mild symptoms and signs to serious and life threatening illness.

Supervisors will be trained on how to track the weather at the job site (by monitoring predicted

temperature highs and periodically using a thermometer). Supervisors will be instructed on, how weather information will be used to modify work schedules, to increase number of water and rest breaks or cease work early if necessary.

All employees and supervisors will be trained prior to working outside. Training will include all aspects of

implementing an effective Heat Illness Prevention Plan including but not limited to; providing sufficient water, providing access to shade, high-heat procedures, emergency response procedures and acclimatization contained in the company’s written prevention procedures.

Employees will be trained on the steps that will be followed for contacting emergency medical services,

including how they are to proceed when there are non-English speaking workers, how clear and precise directions to the site will be provided and the importance of making visual contact with emergency responders at the nearest road or landmark to direct them to their worksite.

When the temperature is expected to exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, short ‘tailgate’ meetings will be

held to review the weather report, to reinforce heat illness prevention with all workers, to provide reminders to drink water frequently, to inform them that shade can be made available upon request and to remind them to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of heat illness.

New employees will be assigned a “buddy” or experienced coworker to ensure that they understand the

training and follow company procedures.

Resources (include but are not limited to):

29 of 29

http://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/heatIllnessQA.html

http://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/etools/08-006/index.htm

http://www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/HeatIllnessInfo.html

Heat Illness Prevention - NES, Inc. · 14.03.2018 · Heat Illness Prevention Cal-OSHA Top 10...

Documents

Transcript of Heat Illness Prevention - NES, Inc. · 14.03.2018 · Heat Illness Prevention Cal-OSHA Top 10...