Tips on Avoiding Heat-Related Incidents to Protect Your Construction Workers and Comply with OSHA

As it gets closer to summer, any construction company that employs a significant number of outdoor workers needs to take this time to review its policies regarding the protection of those workers from the elements.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) has no specific regulations addressing employer responsibility for heat- and sun-related hazards.  However, the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) rule does state that employers must provide both protective equipment and employee training to workers if they work under certain conditions.  Sunlight and heat-common enemies in the construction industry-are included in these environmental hazards.  PPE can include clothing that protects the eyes, face, head and extremities of an employee, as well as protective shields, barriers and shields. 

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