Scope and Purpose
Working in hot environments presents serious risks, including heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. To protect workers effectively, employers must develop and implement a written Heat Stress Management Program (HSMP) that is tailored to the specific worksite. This program is required whenever employees are exposed to temperatures at or above the initial heat-stress trigger (70 WBGT, approximately 80°F Heat Index).
Employer Responsibilities
1. Written Program
- Develop a site-specific written HSMP covering procedures for both supervisory and non-supervisory staff.
2. Jobsite Checklist
- Maintain a checklist of potential heat-stress factors specific to each worksite.
3. Preseason and Refresher Training
- Provide initial training before employees begin hot-season tasks.
- Issue brief refresher reminders during heat waves, power outages, or other high-risk periods, including reviews of acclimatization procedures.
4. Supportive Safety Culture
- Encourage employees to recognize and report early symptoms of heat illness.
- Empower workers to stop work immediately if they feel unwell.
5. Clear, Accessible Training
- Deliver training in language and formats that all workers can understand.
- Ensure job procedures align with the training content.
6. Training Records
- Maintain up-to-date records demonstrating completion of required training.
7. Emergency Provisions
- Provide on-site resources for heat emergencies, such as towels, cooling sprays, fans, water-immersion tubs, and first-aid supplies.