07/16/08 Heat Stress

Heat Stress. I'm Greg Martin with today's Fruit Grower Report. It's July in the Northwest. And in many areas that means hot conditions. Workers who spend most if not all of their day outside need to take extra precautions so they are not overcome by heat stroke. On July 5, a permanent rule protecting workers from outdoor heat exposure went into effect. Elaine Fischer, L&I Communications says you need to be aware. FISCHER: If the temperatures were going to reach a certain level and on those days that the temperature reached a certain level that triggered the requirements they would need to provide extra water and remind employees to drink lots of water and be aware if you feel these symptoms you should let your supervisor know. With temperatures climbing to record levels this week, tree fruit producers are reminded to take extra precautions when it comes to supervising employees in the orchard. With the hot weather, orchard supervisors may need to consider various work-flow strategies to prevent and guard against heat-related illnesses. A key element during this temporary heat wave is to encourage your workforce to drink plenty of water. One side note in regards to the new heat stress rule, Mike Seale with L&I Compliance says you do not have to put up a poster. SEALE: We try to get the word out to people; don't buy posters from people when they're not required and two if they were required we would provide them for you free. I mean we wouldn't make you go buy them. Seale says if you have any questions to contact the Compliance Department. That's today's Fruit Grower Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.