Heat Illness Prevention and Response

Workers performing job duties outside must follow the campus Heat Illness Prevention & Response Plan to comply with Cal/OSHA. Important precautions include:

• Scheduling breaks.

• Providing ample shade and water.

• Monitoring workers for signs and symptoms of heat illness.

• Resting in shade if experiencing heat exhaustion; don't return to work in the sun.

• If someone is experiencing heat stroke, immediately call 911 and apply first aid. Signs of heat stroke include: hot/red/dry skin, acting confused or disoriented, falling unconscious.

• Ensure completion of heat illness prevention training via these options:

• EHS 702 Heat Illness is a 20-minute online course available through the UC Learning Center.

• Supervisor-led discussion using the EH&S Heat Illness Fact Sheet and Checklist (This option includes a form to document training attendance).

Pay attention to details in the Work Planning and Site Checklist for requirements when it is over 95°. To prepare: 

• If possible, limit strenuous tasks to morning or late afternoon. 

• Conduct a pre-shift meeting to review high heat procedures, encourage employees to drink plenty of water, and to take cool-down rest breaks every two hours, and whenever they feel the need to do so. 

• Supervisors must maintain a means of communication and check in on staff often during high heat conditions.

Many UC Berkeley buildings do not have air conditioning and can be as hot as outside temperatures. If you need to seek refuge from heat, the following buildings are air conditioned and have seating in lobbies during normal operating hours.

TheNational Weather Service provides forecasts for the SF Bay Area and issues heat advisories and warnings during heat waves. It’s also a good idea to monitor on-site temperatures with a thermometer as conditions may vary drastically between the shoreline and Berkeley hills; and pavement, athletic fields, and reflected heat from structures can exacerbate heat stress.