OSHA Heat Guidelines

Employees that perform their duties in high-temperature work environments are subject to heat stress hazards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulates radiant heat sources, high humidity and direct contact with hot objects.

General Guidelines

OSHA doesn't have specific regulations regarding heat stress but they do have a General Duty Clause that covers working conditions where guidelines have not been created. OSHA offers important information for employees who work in heat hazardous environments. Employers should permit employees to drink water liberally, establish provisions for work and rest when temperatures are high and teach employees how to identify heat-related symptoms.

Office Temperature/Humidity

OSHA does not offer specific guidelines for temperature and humidity within an office setting. However, they do recommend an outside source for guidance from the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Engineers. ASHRAE makes recommendations for temperature ranges to satisfy the comfort levels for most employees within a building.

Working Outdoors

Employees that are required to work outdoors during the summer months have to contend with heat-related hazards, which include sun exposure and high temperatures. OSHA recommends that employees cover up, use sunscreen, wear hats and UV-absorbent sunglasses when working directly in the sun and in high-temperature environments. OSHA also encourages employees to work shorter lengths of time and to work in the shade when possible.

References

• OSHA: Heat Stress
• OSHA: OSHAct 5(a)(1)
• OSHA: Office Temperature/Humidity
• OSHA: Working Outdoors in Warm Climates