On June 27, 2023 Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) adopted the revised permanent rules for Worker Outdoor Heat Exposures. Washington has been operating under emergency rules during the last two summers while the permanent rule was being developed. With the approval, the new regulations went into effect July 17, 2023.

In the new guidance, employers and employees will find new and updated information to protect workers while working in outdoor heat conditions. The new standards will apply year-round when the action levels outlined in Table 1, 52oF for non-Breathable clothing and 80oF for all other clothing, are exceeded. Some additions and revisions that were made include:

• New/updated definitions
• Response to heat induced illnesses
• Information and Training program requirements
• Shade requirements
• Acclimatization guidelines

For more information, check out our regulatory update fact sheet or Be Heat Smart (wa.gov) for access to resources such as posters, videos, and training materials.

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