The State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has rescinded its draft Heat Stress Rules and is pursuing a different approach. This change by L&I will save millions of dollars and countless thousands man-hours for employers across the state. L&I’s most recent draft heat stress rules would have levied fines on any employer in Washington that between June 1 and Sept. 30 of each calendar year did not:
- Provide one quart of water per hour for every worker
- Provide or construct a source of shade or cooling for workers
- Allow workers to take unlimited cooling off periods during work
L&I’s new approach to Heat Stress will include amending current safety rules to clarify employer responsibilities of providing a safe workplace. In addition, L&I plans to provide educational materials to employers and workers regarding prevention and recognition of heat related injuries on jobsites. |
