According to an EPA study, on average 34 workers across all industries die every year from extreme heat exposure.  Extreme heat events have become more common across the globe and the number and intensity of the events are forecasted to increase.  Now is the time to educate yourself and workers on the dangers of extreme heat and the steps you can take to guard against exposure.  To get started, consider the following:

• Provide training on the signs and symptoms of heat exposure and treatment.
• Provide a sufficient amount of drinking water to exposed workers.
• Provide adequate shade.
• Provide work/rest cycles for employees exposed to temperatures above the action levels.
• Utilize the buddy system and establish communications with workers.

For more information in Washington State, consult the Outdoor Heat Exposure rules associated with your industry.
• General industry: WAC 296-62-095 through 09560
• Agriculture: WAC 296-307-097 through 09760
• Firefighters/Fire Departments: WAC 296-305-05004
• Wildland Firefighters: WAC 296-305-07004

The following resources are also provided to aid employers and decision makers in assessing the health risks of extreme heat.
Heat.gov
Heat Safety Tool app