Resources for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

California OSHA Encourages Employers To Allow Workers To Acclimate During First Exposure To High Heat And Humidity

www.workerscompensationinfo.com

Cal/OSHA announced it will encourage employees to acclimate to the heat during the summer months. This is one of the best defenses against heat-related illnesses and fatalities, according to the Department of Industrial Relations' Division of Occupational Safety and Health.

Letting workers to adjust to changes in weather by gradually increasing their exposure and physical activity likely reduces the risk of heat-related issues.

"Our studies of heat-related illnesses and deaths indicate that acclimatization is an important factor in the prevention of heat illness," said Cal/OSHA Chief Len Welsh. "It is especially critical to be vigilant with new workers, and during our first exposure to the high temperatures such as those we are currently experiencing."

The risk of dying from heat illness appears to be highest for employees who just begin working in extreme heat as the body needs to adapt gradually to exertions in the heat and humidity. Most people adjust to the weather or acclimate within four-to-14 days of regular work levels, according to Cal/OSHA heat illness prevention data.

"It is imperative to monitor your employees at all times during hot weather and allow those who are new to working in hot weather to gradually adapt to the daily routine," said Welsh.

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