Heat Illness Prevention Plan

Purpose

This Heat Illness Prevention Plan (HIPP) outlines how VONet protects volunteers, workers, and staff from heat-related illness during outdoor or high-temperature tasks. This plan is in compliance with **Nevada OSHA Regulation R131-24AP**, effective April 29, 2025, and applies to all VONet activities involving physical labor in hot environments.

1. Applicability

This plan applies to:

• All volunteers, contractors, and staff performing outdoor work or working in enclosed spaces without climate control
• Any VONet worksite or project located in Nevada
• All installations, public events, training sessions, or outreach that may occur in high-heat conditions

2. Heat Risk Assessment

A designated site lead or supervisor must:

• Conduct a **Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)** before any outdoor installation or physical activity, especially in summer months
• Identify the expected duration, type of work, environmental conditions, and whether shade, cooling, and water are accessible
• Reschedule work when feasible if the Heat Index exceeds safe thresholds based on NIOSH/OSHA guidance

3. Required Protections

a. Hydration

• Potable water must be available at every job site, free of charge
• Each individual is encouraged to drink at least 1 cup (8 oz) of water every 15–20 minutes
• Electrolyte drinks may also be provided during long-duration shifts

b. Rest Breaks and Shade

• Workers must be provided access to **rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces**
• Breaks should occur at least every hour during extreme heat conditions
• A minimum of 10 minutes of rest per hour is required during Heat Index values above 103°F

c. Cooling and Recovery

• Cooling measures may include fans, cold packs, cooling towels, or indoor recovery spaces
• Emergency protocols must be available in case of suspected heat exhaustion or heat stroke

4. Monitoring and Supervision

• A designated person at each worksite will monitor all workers for signs of heat-related illness
• Buddy systems will be used during installation days to ensure no one is working alone in high-heat areas
• Site leads are authorized to stop work if someone shows symptoms of heat illness

5. Emergency Procedures

If any person shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, vomiting, or cessation of sweating):

• Move them to a shaded or cool area immediately
• Call emergency services (911)
• Apply cold compresses and offer water if conscious
• Notify the VONet Director as soon as possible

6. Training and Awareness

• All volunteers and staff participating in physical activities will receive heat safety orientation
• Training includes symptoms of heat illness, hydration guidance, how to request a break, and emergency procedures
• Heat safety signage will be displayed during all hot-weather work

7. Documentation and Review

• All Job Hazard Analyses will be kept on file for 3 years
• This plan will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to remain in compliance with Nevada OSHA regulations
• Records of training sessions will be retained as part of VONet’s safety documentation

8. Fiscal Sponsor Requirements

If VONet operates under a fiscal sponsor, any additional heat safety requirements issued by that sponsor must be followed. In case of conflict, the stricter policy will apply.