Md. Code Regs. 09.12.32.08

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 22, November 1, 2024

Section 09.12.32.08 - High-Heat Procedures

A. An employer shall implement high-heat procedures when the heat index reaches or exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the area where the work is being performed.

B. The high-heat procedures shall include a work and rest schedule to protect employees from heat-related illness that is adjusted for environmental conditions, workload, and impact of required clothing or personal protective equipment.

C. Except as provided in §D of this regulation, the high-heat procedures shall include:

(1) Both:

(a) A minimum rest period of 10 minutes for every 2 hours worked where employees are exposed to a heat index above 90 and below 100 degrees Fahrenheit; and

(b) A minimum rest period of 15 minutes for every hour worked where employees are exposed to a heat index above 100 degrees Fahrenheit; or

(2) A rest period as provided for in the current National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommendations for work and rest schedules to manage heat exposures.

D. If an employer can demonstrate effective heat management and protection from heat-related illness through alternative cooling and control measures, the work and rest schedules set forth in §C of this regulation may not be required.

E. If an employer utilizes alternative cooling and control measures under §D of this regulation, the measures:

(1) Shall be readily available and accessible to employees at all times work is being performed;

(2) Shall be documented in writing; and

(3) May not supersede any other requirements of this chapter.

F. An employer may coincide rest periods with a scheduled rest or meal period.

G. Rest periods shall be taken in the shade in accordance with Regulation .06 of this chapter.

H. An employer may not discourage employees from taking rest breaks as needed to prevent heat-related illness.

I. When high-heat procedures are in effect, an employer shall monitor exposed employees for signs of heat-related illness with regular communication via:

(1) Phone or radio;

(2) A buddy system; or

(3) Other effective means of observation.

J. An employer shall make high-heat procedures available in writing in a language and manner that all employees can understand.

Md. Code Regs. 09.12.32.08

Regulation .08 adopted effective 51:19 Md. R. 854, eff. 9/30/2024.