Outdoor Heat Exposure

Updated July 12, 2023

University units with personnel who work outdoors are required to implement safety measures to help prevent heat-related illness, including providing initial and annual training, and implementing a written Outdoor Heat Safety Plan.

Guidance for indoor heat and thermal comfort issues can be found on the Indoor Air Quality page.

Requirements

Washington state outdoor heat exposure rules apply to University units and departments with personnel performing work outdoors for more than 15 minutes in any 60-minute period when personnel are exposed to outdoor heat at or above the temperature and conditions listed in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Outdoor temperature action levels

TYPE OF CLOTHING WORN ACTION REQUIRED AT OR ABOVE THIS TEMPERATURE
Non-breathable clothes, including vapor barrier clothing or PPE such as chemical resistant suits 52 degrees F
All other clothing 80 degrees F

The action temperatures apply only if personnel are required to perform a work activity outdoors for more than 15 minutes in any 60-minute period. The rules apply to every hour during the work shift.

Responsibilities

Training

Prior to outdoor work in temperatures exceeding those listed in Table 1 (above) and annually thereafter, personnel and supervisors are required to complete the online EH&S Outdoor Heat Safety Training course.

Services available

Contact EH&S at airquality@uw.edu or (206) 543-7388 for consultation and assistance.

Definitions

Frequently asked questions