Water rest shade

Water, rest, shade is OSHA's three-part heat message. Give workers cool water and remind them to drink often, not just when thirsty. Require rest breaks that get longer as heat stress rises. Give workers a cool place to recover, such as shade, an air-conditioned vehicle or a tent with fans.

OSHA adds that on jobs longer than two hours, employers should provide electrolyte-containing drinks such as sports drinks, because water cannot replace electrolytes lost in sweat. Read about electrolytes and hydration. Rest timing is covered under work/rest schedule. Our jobsite hydration plan guide shows how crews apply it.