|  | Conditions Treatments | Heat Stroke

OSHA & Working Temperatures

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards to reduce the risk of injury or illness in the workplace. While OSHA recognizes heat stress as a significant workplace problem, specific working temperature guidelines do not exist.

  1. Indoor Temperatures

    • Specific OSHA regulations do not exist for regulation of indoor office temperatures. However, OSHA recommends an indoor temperature range of 68 to 76 degrees and humidity control in the range of 20 to 60 percent.

    Outdoor Temperatures

    • Several factors affect the risks associated with outdoor heat exposure including radiant heat, humidity, activity levels and use of required personal protective equipment. The multiple factors contributing to the risk of heat stress prevent the standardization of safe working temperature ranges for outdoor activities.

    Considerations

    • Standards exist for the education, training and monitoring of employees working in environments putting them at risk for heat stress. Furthermore, the Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, including high temperatures, in situations for which there is no OSHA standard.

Heat Stroke - Related Articles