California Extends Emergency Heat Rule A Second Time; Final Version in the Works
California's Occupational Health and Safety Standards Board has extended the state's emergency heat rule until July 17-the second extension since the rule was instituted last August. A final and permanent version of the rule, which is designed to protect agricultural, construction, and other outdoor workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses, is not expected to differ greatly from the emergency rule. The rule calls for employers to train supervisors and employees in recognizing the symptoms of heat stress and taking steps to mitigate heat-related illnesses.
After the board adopts the rule, it will undergo an administrative law review before final approval. The rule was put in effect after one construction worker and three agricultural workers died of heat-related illnesses on the job in California in July 2005.
For further information:
http://www.californiahealthline.org/index.cfm?Action=dspItem
&itemID=113369&ClassCD=CL120 | 
