Excessive heat can cause nausea, vomiting and, in extreme cases, heat stroke which can lead to organ failure or death. While California has had a heat illness regulation in place for outdoor workplaces for nearly two decades, that standard did not apply to indoor workplaces. That changed July 24, 2024 when Cal/OSHA’s new regulation on indoor heat went into effect. Now, protections are in place for indoor workers when temperatures get too high.

Where does this standard apply?

The new standard with some exceptions, applies to indoor locations such as restaurants, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities where the temperature equals or exceeds 82 degrees Fahrenheit when workers are present. It closely follows provisions set forth in the outdoor regulation.

What are the exceptions?

The indoor standard does not apply in incidental cases where a worker is exposed to temperatures at or above 82 degrees Fahrenheit and below 95 degrees Fahrenheit for less than 15 minutes in any 60-minute period. This exception does not apply to:

  • Vehicles without effective and functioning air conditioning
  • Shipping or intermodal containers during loading, unloading or related work

Other exceptions to the indoor heat standard include:

  • Prisons, local detention facilities, and juvenile facilities
  • Places of employment where workers are telecommuting that are not under the control of the employer
  • Emergency operations that are directly involved in the protection of life and property
  • Any outdoor working conditions, as those are covered by a separate regulation

Requirements for employers

The employer must develop and implement effective procedures for complying with this standard. These include:

Provisions for water. Water must be potable, fresh, pure, suitably cool, and provided to workers at all times during the workday, at no cost.

Access to cool down areas. Indoor cool-down areas must have a temperature of less than 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Assessment and control measures. Engineering controls are the preferred method of removing or reducing heat at the workplace. These include air conditioning, fans, and increased natural ventilation.

Emergency response procedures. Emergency medical services must be provided as quickly as possible should an employee suffer from heat illness. Make sure your employees understand their responsibilities set forth in your emergency response plan.

Acclimatization. Make sure to give your employees enough time to adapt to the conditions when exposed to increased heat.

Training. Provide training to your supervisors and employees. This includes how to recognize heat illness symptoms and how to execute your emergency response procedures.

Heat Illness Prevention Plan. Your plan must be in writing and implement effective procedures for complying with the requirements of the indoor heat illness standard.

Heat illness is often linked to extreme temperatures outside. This indoor heat regulation protects indoor workers from heat illness at their workplace. Talk to your employees exposed to indoor heat today. Help them take the necessary precautions to avoid heat illness and stay safe on the job.