Cool For The Summer

Seyfarth Synopsis: As the mercury rises, California employers must comply with regulatory requirements to keep their employees cool. Employers should be aware of Cal/OSHA's existing requirements for outdoor workplaces and proposed rules which could turn up the heat on indoor employers.

California Keeps It Cool

For many years, Cal/OSHA has distinguished itself from Federal OSHA by, among other things, requiring all California employers with outdoor work areas to take steps to prevent heat illness. For example, employers with outdoor work areas must train all employees about heat illness protection and keep their employees well hydrated. Employers must also provide shady areas for five minute cool-down breaks when employees feel the heat. (These breaks are on the clock and separate from rest breaks employers need to provide under the Labor Code). Finally, employers must develop and implement written procedures for complying with the heat illness regulatory