OSHA Rest Break Requirements in Heat: Duration, Frequency, and Documentation

Preventative Cool-Down Rests

Employees must be allowed to take a break whenever they feel signs of overheating. This is a right, not a privilege.

Mandatory High Heat Breaks

Specific state laws like California require 10 minutes every 2 hours at 95°F. The new federal standard is expected to mirror this at 90°F heat index.

Documentation

If it is not written down, it didn't happen. Log your break times.