Cal/OSHA Issues Reminder of Heat-Related Standards Amid National Heat Waves 

Recognizing more frequent heat exposure threatens employee health, the California Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (Cal/OSHA) issued an Advisory on August 5th, spotlighting mandated worker protections both indoors and outdoors.

Outdoor Regulations require employers to provide fresh water, shade when temperatures hit 80°F, and permit cool-down rest breaks on request. Once temperatures reach 95°F, Cal/OSHA imposes stricter rules for agriculture, construction, landscaping, oil and gas, and transport of heavy or agricultural materials. In high heat, employers must also monitor workers for signs of heat illness and maintain effective communication.

California’s indoor heat rule applies when temperatures reach 82 °F, unless exposure is brief (15 minutes or less). Employers must provide cool-down areas kept below 82 °F, water, training, emergency procedures, acclimatization for new or returning staff, and a written plan. At 87°(or 82° when facing radiant heat or wearing restrictive clothing), extra steps apply, including monitoring and controls.

Missed cool-downs require premium pay. Employers should verify plans, train supervisors, audit hot spots like kitchens and warehouses, document acclimatization, and use an 82°F checklist to reduce enforcement risk.