Construction crews implement mandatory heat illness protocols using OSHA apps when temperatures hit 80-82 degrees under California workplace safety requirements.
SAN DIEGO — As temperatures climbed to dangerous levels Thursday, construction supervisors across San Diego enacted mandatory heat illness prevention protocols required under California law.
At the future Hilton hotel site on Fifth Avenue and Ash Street, Frank Najera, superintendent for Davis Reed Construction, demonstrated how his company uses technology to keep workers safe.
“We use the app called Heat Index, and it tells you it feels like 82 degrees,” Najera said, showing his phone screen.
When temperatures reach that threshold, California law requires immediate action. Najera notified his crews to take additional precautions, telling them to water up and take an extra break if needed.
“They have to be allowed to. We can’t just keep people working,” he said.
Najera uses an OSHA-endorsed application that helps companies comply with California’s heat illness prevention guidelines — a tool he says saves lives.
“It’s a great tool. Not everyone uses it, but it keeps people alive,” Najera said.
California’s regulations require different protections based on temperature thresholds. When indoor workplace temperatures reach 82 degrees, employers must provide water, rest areas and cool-down spaces. Construction crews face stricter outdoor requirements, needing fresh water and shade access when temperatures hit 80 degrees.
Najera showed areas where his crews can escape the heat — shaded spaces with bottled water stations and good ventilation. On the building’s 16th floor, where workers face full sun exposure, additional shade structures provide relief.
“We’re shaded. We have a good breeze. The temperature is probably a little lower here, and you’ll see bottled water everywhere,” Najera explained.
If temperatures reach 95 degrees, supervisors must constantly monitor workers for heat illness symptoms under the enhanced protocols.
The heat safety requirements extend beyond construction sites. Delivery drivers and athletes are also adapting to the dangerous temperatures.
Keenan Washington, a delivery driver, has developed his own cooling strategies.
“I just stay hydrated, make sure I drink a bunch of water,” Washington said. “I stay in the car if I can and keep the AC on.”
Mesa College freshman Devin Riley was preparing for football practice despite the heat.
“Practicing in this heat is getting your mind right,” Riley said. “What I do is pour water down my back. Hydrate with electrolytes every day.”
The safety protocols come as part of Cal/OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention special emphasis program, which combines enforcement with multilingual outreach and training. Davis Reed Construction participates in the agency’s voluntary Heat Illness Prevention Network, designed to increase awareness among employers and workers.
Workers in California are protected regardless of immigration status. Those with questions about workplace safety and health can call 833-579-0927 to speak with a live bilingual Cal/OSHA representative between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Complaints about workplace safety and health hazards can be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices.
Employers who have questions or need assistance with workplace health and safety programs can call Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch at 800-963-9424.
