L&I Proposes Lowering Trigger for Heat Protection Rules to 80 Degrees

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries is proposing to lower the temperature that triggers the requirement for employers to provide outdoor workers with access to water, shade and cool-down breaks. Under current rules, the requirement to ensure outdoor workers have access to water and shade is triggered when the temperature hits 89 degrees. The department on Wednesday announced proposed rules that would reduce that threshold temperature to 80 degrees. The department said in rulemaking materials that heat safety standards in California and Oregon are triggered at 80...