New Standards Address Heat-Related Hazards
It comes as no surprise that the Office of Safety and Health Administration proposed new rules to employers regarding employees who work in environments where high heat can occur. Many parts of the country have seen record breaking high temperatures, though heat exposure occurs in many indoor work settings as well.
According to the document, an initial “heat trigger” is reached when an employee is exposed to 80° F temperatures (heat index) and above for more than fifteen minutes over a 60-minute interval. There can be additional safety requirements as the temperature exposure exceeds 90° F.
Preparing For The New OSHA Rules
As part of the proposed OSHA rules, employers with 10 or more employees will need to prepare, implement, and maintain a written heat injury and illness prevention plan (HIIPP). Employers need to educate crews on precautions, and include in their plan the who, what, when and how of monitoring, implementation and response.
None of this is a bad idea for employers of any size. Most supervisors are aware of the dangers to employees who suffer heat related injuries and illnesses. The rules have been proposed to create a framework for enforcement against the intentional disregard for worker safety by a few negligent employers. A copy of the proposal is posted online in the Federal Register www.federalregister.gov for public review and comment.
Contact Sam Bond Benefit Group To Navigate Government Regulations
If complying with governmental rules is a headache, relief can be as close as the right partner. Many professional employer organizations (PEOs) provide assistance to their clients to help keep them ahead of employer regulations without hours of research. Sharing resources in a PEO relationship allows employers to focus on their own goals. Unify payroll processing, workers’ compensation plan management, employee benefits and human resource compliance measures by using the services of a carefully chosen PEO. Find a PEO that fits the wants and needs of your company by calling Sam Bond Benefit Group at (877) 426-6320 or contact us online here. We know PEO. Licensed, insured, and independently advising business clients nationwide for over thirty years.
