Summer Heat Is Here: Know Your Rights and Protect Yourself on the Job

For many of our members, summer doesn’t mean taking it easy—it means working outside in the heat at our parks or inside warehouses and other facilities where temperatures can quickly become dangerous.

Heat illness is preventable, but it can also become life-threatening if the warning signs are ignored. That’s why we want to remind every member to pay attention to the heat index—not just the temperature—and know the protections you’re entitled to under Maryland law.

The Heat Index Matters

The heat index measures how hot it actually feels by combining air temperature and humidity. Even if the thermometer says 85°F, high humidity can push the heat index well into the danger zone.

When the heat index reaches 80°F, Maryland’s Heat Stress Standard requires employers to begin taking steps to protect workers.

You Have the Right to Heat Protection

If you’re working outdoors or in a warehouse or other hot work environment, your employer is required to:

• Monitor the heat index throughout the workday using weather data, direct measurements, or the NIOSH Heat Safety Tool.
• Provide cool drinking water at no cost, as close to your work area as possible. Workers should have access to at least 32 ounces of water every hour.
• Provide shaded or cooled areas for rest breaks. If shade isn’t possible, employers must provide alternative cooling methods, such as air-conditioned or mechanically ventilated spaces.
• Maintain a written Heat-Related Illness Prevention and Management Plan and make it available to employees.
• Gradually acclimatize employees who are new to working in the heat or returning after seven or more days away from work. This process can last up to 14 days and requires close monitoring.

When the Heat Gets Worse, Protections Increase

When the heat index reaches 90°F or higher, employers must implement additional safety measures.

Employers must also actively monitor employees for signs of heat illness and have an emergency response plan that includes communication procedures, medical response, emergency contacts, and transportation if someone becomes ill.

Know the Warning Signs

Don’t ignore symptoms of heat illness. Watch for:

• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Weakness or fatigue
• Confusion

If you or a coworker begins showing these signs, move to a cool area, drink water if appropriate, and notify your supervisor immediately. If someone loses consciousness, becomes confused, or stops sweating in the heat, call 911 immediately.

Have issues in your workplace and need some guidance ? Reach out to your union representative. Call the office at 301-977-2447 or send an email. They are there to help.