When may employers use cooling measures other than shade?
Non-agricultural employers may provide cooling measures other than shade during the preventative recovery period, if they can demonstrate that the alternative is at least as effective as shade. Such cooling measures include other options or technologies such as fans and misting devices where the employer can demonstrate that they are at least as effective as shade at allowing the body to cool. 9. What are the requirements for preventive recovery periods? The purpose of the recovery period is prevention of heat illness. The employer is required to provide access to shade for those employees who believe they need a preventive recovery period from the effects of the heat and for any who exhibit indications of heat illness. Access to shade must be allowed at all times, and the employee must be allowed to remain in the shade for at least five minutes. The importance of prevention cannot be overstated. By waiting until symptoms appear before seeking shade and recovery, employees are at signi
