CAL/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment Standard
By Alliant Specialty
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On June 20, 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) at the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) adopted the Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment Standard to protect workers from excessive heat indoors. These new protections were approved by the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) and went into immediate effect on July 23, 2024.
The new indoor heat standard applies to all indoor work areas where the temperature equals or exceeds 82 degrees Fahrenheit when employees are present.
Indoor is defined as (i) a space that is under a ceiling or overhead covering that restricts airflow and (ii) is enclosed along its entire perimeter by walls, doors, windows, dividers or other physical barriers that restrict airflow, whether open or closed. All work areas that are not indoor such as shade structures are considered outdoor and covered by section 3395.
The new standard requires that:
- Employers implement engineering controls (e.g., air conditioning or increased ventilation) to reduce the temperature to below 87 degrees Fahrenheit when employees are present or 82 degrees Fahrenheit in areas where employees work in high-radiant heat or must wear protective clothing that restricts heat removal.
- Employees have access to cool-down areas which must be maintained at a temperature below 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Employees have access to potable water that is fresh, suitably cool and free of charge, located as close as practical to the work and cooling area.
- Employers implement effective emergency response procedures that may include contacting emergency medical services, providing basic first aid and monitoring those exhibiting signs of heat illness.
- Employees are closely observed for the first 14 days when acclimating to a work area covered by this standard.
- Employers maintain a written heat illness prevention plan and train workers and supervisors on how to implement the plan.
For a complete list of requirements and exceptions to the new indoor heat standard, reference Cal/OSHA’s frequently asked questions. For additional information and guidance, employers may contact Alliant Construction.
Alliant note and disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance. Please note that prior to implementation your legal counsel should review all details or policy information. Alliant Insurance Services does not provide legal advice or legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please seek the services of your own legal advisor or ask Alliant Insurance Services for a referral. This document is provided on an “as is” basis without any warranty of any kind. Alliant Insurance Services disclaims any liability for any loss or damage from reliance on this document.
