Following Record-Breaking Heatwave, Oregon OSHA Adopts New Heat Safety Measures

This week, Washington joined the Oregon OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in adopting emergency safety measures in response to the recent record-breaking temperatures across the Pacific Northwest.

The heatwave has been classified as a mass casualty event including at least one worker death. Oregon’s OSHA Administrator Michael Wood stated, “This rule creates greater clarity for employers about the specific steps that need to be taken to protect workers from heat stress dangers at work.”

The main factor considered is heat index, which is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with air temperature.

According to Oregon OSHA, a workplace hazard exists when heat index reaches 80°F. The new measures require employers to provide adequate shade, drinking water, and implementation of a emergency medical plan when the heat index rises above 90°F including monitoring employees for signs of heat illness. 

♨️ For high heat safety tips, click here.

🌡️ Wet Bulb Globe Temperature is a calculated parameter used to monitor for outdoor exposure in high temperature conditions, such as military or athletic training and utility work.

Our Heat Stress System measures WBGT and was developed for the US Coast Guard in Florida to help keep workers safe in extreme heat and humid environments. For additional information, click here.