Check Heat Conditions
OSHA Heat Risk Scale
<91°F
Low Risk
91–103°F
Caution
103–115°F
Danger
>115°F
Extreme
Recommended Actions
Why do heat safety requirements matter?
OSHA requires specific heat index thresholds, break schedules, and emergency procedures. Understanding these requirements protects your crew and prevents costly citations.
OSHA Heat Illness Prevention
Heat illness is one of the leading causes of occupational illness in the US. OSHA's heat index action levels help employers and workers identify when protective measures are needed. The heat index combines temperature and humidity to reflect how the air actually feels to the human body.
Signs of heat exhaustion vs heat stroke
Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale/clammy skin,
fast/weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, possible fainting. Move the person to a cool area, loosen clothing,
apply cool wet cloths, give sips of water. Seek medical attention if vomiting occurs. Heat
stroke: High body temp (103°F+), hot/red/dry skin, rapid/strong pulse, possible unconsciousness.
This is a medical emergency — call 911 immediately. Cool the person rapidly using any means available.
Water, rest, shade — OSHA's basic heat prevention rule
OSHA recommends one cup (8 oz) of water every 15–20 minutes during heat stress
conditions. Rest breaks should be taken in shade or a cool area. New workers should be gradually
acclimatized to heat — start with 20% of the workload on day 1 and increase by 20% each subsequent day.
Workers who are new to outdoor labor in summer heat are at highest risk in the first 1–2 weeks.