OSHA Issues its First Hazard Alert

OSHA Issues its First Hazard Alert on Heat- July, 2023

Washington — OSHA is urging employers to take steps to keep workers safe in extreme heat, including providing adequate cool water, rest breaks, and shade or a cool rest area.

According to a hazard alert issued on July 27, employers also should:

• Give new or returning employees a chance to gradually acclimatize to high-heat conditions, provide training and plan for emergencies, and monitor for signs/symptoms of heat-related illness.
• Train employees on heat-related illness prevention, signs of heat-related illness, and how to act if they or another employee appears to be experiencing a heat-related illness.

The alert – the first from OSHA focusing on heat – explains how workers can notify OSHA of safety violations and details whistleblower protections. It includes resources and OSHA current/future actions on heat-related issues, including compliance assistance.

Click here to read the full article on this hazard alert from Safety & Helath Magazine.