Heat Advisory

Every year from May 1 through September, employers in Washington State are required to take steps to protect employees working outdoors from heat illness.

Physically demanding work, heavy clothing, and dehydration can put even the healthiest workers at higher risk for serious heat illness like debilitating heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke.  Heat exhaustion can make workers more susceptible to falls, equipment-related injuries, and other on-the-job safety hazards.

Prevention is the best approach to protect workers. Follow safety requirements in applicable rules and use the resources on this page to plan, prepare, and train for prevention.

In addition to requirements in the permanent rule, as of June 15, 2022, additional temporary requirements go into effect for cool water, shade, cool-down rest periods, and observing and communicating with workers about signs and symptoms of heat illness.

For all of L&I Outdoor Heat Exposure Emergency Rules Click Here

If your employer has not established a plan for heat exposure or you are experiences issues, please let us know. 
​Visit our contact page for your representative or main office information.