New 2026 Federal Heat Illness Standard: How it affects crane crew rest cycles
The 2026 Federal Heat Illness Standard requires mandatory rest breaks, shade access, and water availability for crane crews when heat index exceeds 80°F.
Starting in 2026, OSHA's Federal Heat Illness Prevention Standard will mandate specific rest periods for crane operators and riggers working in elevated temperatures. When the heat index reaches 80°F, employers must provide 15-minute breaks every two hours in addition to regular breaks. At 90°F heat index, rest breaks increase to 15 minutes every hour.
Remember: "80-SWR": 80°F heat index triggers Shade, Water, Rest requirements for crane crews
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