Cal/OSHA is reminding all employers to protect their outdoor workers from the risk of heat illness, as temperatures in the Central Valley and parts of Southern California are expected to reach the 80s today and into the weekend, with record highs expected in some areas. “While California’s heat illness standards are the toughest in the country, we will continue to make sure employers and employees know the risks of heat illness and the steps that can be taken to prevent it,” said Christine Baker, director of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). The Division of Occupational Safety and Health, commonly known as Cal/OSHA, is a division within the DIR. Cal/OSHA takes a comprehensive approach to preventing heat illness among outdoor workers. Its award-winning heat illness prevention campaign, the first of its kind in the nation, includes enforcement of heat regulations as well as outreach and training for California’s employers and workers. “Heat illness can easily be prevented,” said Cal/OSHA Chief Ellen Widess. “What’s essential is access to adequate water, rest and shade, training for workers and supervisors on the signs and symptoms of heat illness, and ensuring emergency response procedures are in place in case of a medical emergency.” California’s heat regulation requires all employers with outdoor workers take basic steps to protect outdoor workers: