Workplace issues
Extreme weather
USPS’s Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP) and Management’s Responsibilities
In 2022, the USPS issued instructions to management which detail their ongoing responsibilities relating to their Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP).
The document link at the end of this paragraph provides instructions to management on their responsibilities to train you every year by April 1. This program requires training for all employees and supervisors. It focuses on education as a means to prevent or mitigate heat illness. This information also contains ongoing responsibilities for your supervisors and your managers up to the level of the Area Vice President. These responsibilities are well-detailed. A copy of the 2022 Instructions can be found here.
Separately, we draw your attention to the information found below titled: "Heat Safety Communications from USPS and NALC Director of Safety and Health". To the right of that title, you will find a "+" sign which will open the additional items.
OSHA: A Guide for Employers
OSHA does not have a specific standard that covers working in hot environments. Nonetheless, under the OSH Act, employers have a duty to protect workers from recognized serious hazards in the workplace, including heat-related hazards.
This guide helps employers and worksite supervisors prepare and implement hot weather plans. It explains how to use the heat index to determine when extra precautions are needed at a worksite to protect workers from environmental contributions to heat-related illness. Workers performing strenuous activity, workers using heavy or non-breathable protective clothing, and workers who are new to an outdoor job need additional precautions beyond those warranted by heat index alone.
OSHRC consolidated decision
Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission consolidated decision for docket numbers 16-1713, 16-1872, 17-0023, 17-0279, can be found here.
Redesigned Heat Safety Tool app released
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have collaborated to update OSHA’s original Heat Safety Tool app for smartphones. Click here to learn more.
Current heat index
Click here to get your current heat index from The Weather Channel—and bookmark that page for future reference.
Water. Rest. Shade.
OSHA’s campaign to keep workers safe in the heat
Extreme weather