Working and Heat Stress

Heat stress develops when the body can no longer regulate its internal temperature. If symptoms of heat stress are ignored, it can lead to heat exhaustion or the potentially fatal condition of heat stroke. Heat related illness can be avoided by taking preventative measures and being aware of the warning signs.

In May 2022, Oregon OSHA adopted rule OAR 437-002-0156 requiring employers to implement preventative measures to protect employees against heat related illnesses. Supervisors and employees have responsibilities to meet under this regulation. Heat related illness can occur to both indoor and outdoor workers. Consult the chart below to see what regulatory requirements you must meet based on your typical working conditions.

Heat Illness Prevention

Working Conditions	REQUIREMENTS
Employees who work in conditions where the heat index could be above 80°F.	No exemptions from any portion of the regulations. Training is required.
Employees whose work has a light physical demand including sitting, thinking, driving, or occasional walking.	Partially exempt from the regulations. Training is required to understand signs and symptoms of heat illness and how to lower risk.
Employees who work from home.	Partially exempt from the regulations. Training is required so employees can recognize signs and symptoms of heat illness and how to lower risk.
Employees with incidental heat exposures defined as less than 15 minutes in any 60-minute period.	Exempt from regulations. Training is optional but recommended.
Employees working in buildings and structures that have a mechanical ventilation system that keeps the heat index below 80°F.	Exempt from regulations. Training is optional.
Employees where the work process generates the heat (for example working on a kiln or in a bakery).	Exempt from regulations. Training is optional.
Employees directly involved in emergency operations in protection of life or property, or the restoration of essential services (evacuation, rescue, medical, firefighting, law enforcement, utilities, and communications).	Exempt from regulations. Training is optional.

If you have questions about this regulation or would like to request an in-person training on Heat Illness Prevention, please contact Environmental Health and Safety at ehsinfo@uoregon.edu.