As the Summer of 2024 approaches, employers in the construction and demolition industries can better prepare by following the newly published heat stress management guidance from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). The national voluntary consensus standard (ANSI/ASSP A10.50-2024) is the first of its kind, establishing minimum requirements for the prevention of heat illnesses and management of heat stress hazards and exposures encountered during construction and demolition operations.  Following the guidelines in the standard is reportedly reduces the risk of your workforce to adverse occupational health effects from heat stress caused by heat exposures during construction and demolition operations.

The standard provides industry employers tools for better management of heat stress hazards through definitions, procedures, checklists, and flowcharts.  Additionally, employers are given guidance in the selection and use of appropriate controls and practices to reduce risks presented by heat stress and prevention of heat illnesses for all work environments within the industries.

ANSI/ASSP A10.50 sets a benchmark for employer guidance related to Emergency Action Procedures for occupational heat stress and heat illness, including procedures to follow for emergency personnel, emergency communication, emergency equipment, and roles of first responders.

Although the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not have a specific regulation covering heat stress hazards, the “General Duty Clause”, Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act), requires each employer to “furnish each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm”.

Additional recommendations for employers on reducing the risks of workplace heat stress is provided by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

RHP Risk Management’s Professionals are experienced, knowledgeable, and credentialed to provide guidance for businesses implementing worker health and safety plans. Companies and businesses who adopt, promote, and seek to regularly improve their active Occupational and Environmental, Health and Safety programs and management systems are rewarded with a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce with less turnover, and lower administrative and operating costs. Contact RHP for an initial consultation or call (773) 867-6010.