Outdoor Heat Exposure
Related keywords: Heat Stress, OHE
Working outdoors in hot weather can result in serious illness or even death. Workers exposed to extreme heat may experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses (HRI), such as heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, fainting, heat stroke and other symptoms.
Heat-related illness is also linked to injuries from falls, equipment operation accidents and other on-the-job incidents. Such incidents can happen when someone with heat stress becomes fatigued, dizzy, confused or disoriented.
Employers must provide training to workers so they understand what heat stress is, how it affects their health and safety, and how it can be prevented. The Outdoor Heat Exposure Rule WAC 296-62-095 applies from May 1 through September 30, every year, when exposures are at or above a specific temperature (see Table 1 of the rule).
Related Topics
- Accident Prevention Program
- Agriculture
- Construction Work
- Drinking Water (Water, Drinking, Potable Water)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Seasonal Safety - Summer Hazards
How can I get help from L&I?
- To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/about.asp for no charge technical assistance.
- For help with controlling your claims costs, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/riskmanagement.asp for a no charge risk management consultation.
- Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
- Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
- For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
