A pair of new guidance documents from OSHA outline measures employers should take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of heat-related illness among workers wearing cloth facial coverings in hot and humid conditions or performing strenuous tasks.
Workers in outdoor environments who might experience issues include those in construction, landscaping, delivery services, and oil and gas activities. Indoor workers in bakeries, kitchens, mills, foundries, laundries, electric utilities, fire services, manufacturing, and warehousing are likely to face these conditions as well.
Both documents—one for indoor workers and the other for outdoor workers—recommend more frequent hydration and rest breaks in shaded, nonenclosed, or air conditioned areas for employees working outdoors and cooled environments for those working indoors.
Employers are encouraged to examine the feasibility of wearing cloth facial coverings for every worker and considering alternatives, such as faceshields.
When workers are in close proximity, cloth facial coverings should be prioritized. In addition, implement physical distancing of at least 6 ft between workers in break areas by staggering break times, spacing out employees, and limiting the number of workers on break at one time.