About
Occupational exposure to heat can result in injuries, disease, reduced productivity, and death. To address this hazard, the NIOSH has evaluated the scientific data on heat stress and hot environments and has updated the Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Exposure to Hot Environments. This document was last updated in 1986, and in recent years, including during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response of 2010, questions were raised regarding the need for revision to reflect recent research and findings. This revision includes additional information about the physiological changes that result from heat stress; updated information from relevant studies, such as those on caffeine use; evidence to redefine heat stroke and associated symptoms; and updated information on physiological monitoring and personal protective equipment and clothing that can be used to control heat stress.
Suggested citation
NIOSH [2016]. NIOSH criteria for a recommended standard: occupational exposure to heat and hot environments. By Jacklitsch B, Williams WJ, Musolin K, Coca A, Kim J-H, Turner N. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 2016-106.
Additional information
Medication and heat interactions
In 2024, CDC created a new webpage on Heat and Medications – Guidance for Clinicians. The new guidance uses the latest literature and scientific evidence to build onto the medical knowledge related to medication and heat interactions. This webpage provides a more current update of the 2016 criteria document's Table 4-2. Drugs implicated in intolerance to heat. As new medications and research become available, it is anticipated that the webpage will be periodically updated.
Related resource
Document development history
Peer review and public comment
Printed copies
This resource can be ordered as a professionally printed material and delivered directly to your location. To place a request, email pubstaft@cdc.gov