Construction workers, especially those working in the roofing industry, are particularly susceptible to heat injuries due to occupational risk factors. When combined with COVID-19 mandatory mask requirements and the elimination of communal water supplies, the heat could spell disaster for roofing crews. To date, we have already had more than 20 telephone calls from roofing contractors who have had employees suffer from heat-related injury or illness.
Under OSHA’s general duty clause, employers are responsible for providing workplaces that are free of known safety hazards, including protecting workers from heat-related illnesses. With this in mind, it is very important that contractors plan for this hazard through a comprehensive heat-illness prevention program. Additionally, contractors can take advantage of free resources, such as OSHA’s Heat Safety Smartphone App (available on iPhone and Android). At a minimum, any safety program should address the following points: Read More.