CalOSHA Formally Proposes “Indoor Heat Illness Regulation”

The CalOSHA Standards Board has released notice the plan to hear the new Section 3396 – Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment.  This new regulation would affect all indoor work areas where the temperature equals or exceeds 82 °F when employees are present.  In these areas the employer must provide a mandatory “cool down area” that is less than 82 °F.  in addition the employer must monitor the temperature and heat index at all times.  Further, the employer must provide engineering controls to bring temperatures down to 87 °F.  Employers will also have to develop and implement emergency response procedures, employee training, supervisor training and have a written Heat Illness Prevention Plan (HIPP).  The proposed standard is set to be heard by the Standards Board in May.  The Association is opposing the proposed standard as currently written.