Another Tool for your Safety Toolbag!

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As the average temperatures continue to rise throughout the world, the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), in collaboration with East Carolina University, has developed a new heat stress app to aid in the protection of workers. The new app is focused on utilizing an adjusted wet bulb globe temperature (WGBT) to identify risks associated to the worksite so appropriate exposure controls can be put into motion. The app will calculate risk based upon several factors including location, work intensity, and protective clothing used. For those employers with multiple locations, the app is being designed with the ability to monitor multiple work locations simultaneously. The AIHA is also trying to develop a forecasting feature into the app that will enable employers to better plan for possible exposures. The app has completed the Beta testing phase and is available for Apple and Android users.
For more information on heat stress and the app, visit the AIHA website.

July is Bringing the Heat!

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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.melting
  • 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

It’s Warming Up, Time to Review the Outdoor Heat Exposure Rules!

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Washington State Department of Labor & Industries’ (L&I) permanent rules for Worker Outdoor Heat Exposures went into effect July 17, 2023. With predicted warmer and drier seasons ahead, make sure you are protecting your employees in accordance with the standards.

The year-round standards apply when the action levels outlined in Table 1 – 52 degrees Fahrenheit for Non-Breathable clothing and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for all other clothing – are exceeded. Employers and employees should educate themselves on the triggering events and what actions must be taken to ensure worker safety. Some key aspects to consider include:

• Definitions
• Response to heat induced illnesses
• Information and Training program requirements
• Shade requirements
• Acclimatization guidelines

For more information, check out the Be Heat Smart (wa.gov) for access to the standards and resources such as posters, videos, and training materials.

* The Federal rulemaking for Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor and Outdoor work settings is currently in the Pre-rule stage of development.