What Oregon Districts Need to Know 

As temperatures rise, SDAO wants to remind our districts to protect workers from heat-related illnesses. After June 15th all Oregon OSHA inspections will include a review of your district’s heat illness prevention program. Helpful information can be found on the Heat Illness Prevention FAQs page.  

What Employers Must Do: 

When the heat index (how hot it feels) hits 80°F or higher, employers must: 

• Provide cool drinking water 

• Offer shaded areas for breaks 

• Allow rest breaks to cool down 

• Train workers on heat risks and safety 

• Help workers adjust to working in the heat gradually 

When the heat index reaches 90°F or more, employers must also: 

• Check in regularly with workers 

• Watch for signs of heat illness 

• Have a plan for emergencies 

• Give extra rest breaks 

Examples of Heat Illness: 

Heat Stroke (most serious – medical emergency) 

• Symptoms: confusion, fainting, seizures, very high body temperature, red/hot/dry skin 

• Action: Call 911, move to shade, cool the body with water or ice 

Heat Exhaustion 

• Symptoms: heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, fast heartbeat 

• Action: Rest in shade, drink water, cool with compresses 

Heat Cramps 

• Symptoms: painful muscle spasms (usually in arms, legs, or abdomen) 

• Action: Rest, hydrate, avoid strenuous work until cramps stop 

Heat Rash 

• Symptoms: red bumps on skin, often on neck, chest, or skin folds 

• Action: Keep skin dry, work in cooler areas if possible[1] 

Who This Applies To: 

These rules apply to all districts.  

📧 Email: riskmanagement@sdao.com  
🌐 Visit: Oregon OSHA Heat Stress Page and HEAT.GOV