Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Exposure to Hot Environments (Revised Criteria 1986)

Abstract

"This document contains the recommendations of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for worker exposure to heat stress. Heat-induced occupational illnesses, injuries, and reduced productivity occur in situations in which the total heat load exceeds the capacities of the body to maintain normal body functions without excessive strain. The total heat load represents the sum of the heat gained from the environment plus the heat generated in the body. Total heat stress is the heat load minus the heat lost from the body to the environment. This document presents how the reduction of adverse health effects can be accomplished by the proper application of engineering and work practice controls, worker raining and acclimatization, measurements and assessment of heat stress, medical supervision, and proper use of heat protective clothing and equipment." - NIOSHTIC-2CurrentPrevention and ControlEnvironmental Healt