How much shade must be available?

Employers must ensure there is enough shade for all employees taking a rest and recovery period (breaks) at any one time to sit comfortably and fully in the shade without touching each other. This does not mean that employers are required to provide enough shade to accommodate all of the employees on the shift at the same time. Employers may, for example, rotate the breaks among employees. They may also erect additional structures on an as-needed basis. Any such procedure must be clearly and accurately described in the employer's written heat illness prevention procedures.

The rules and recommendations described above for breaks also apply to meal breaks. The only difference is that employers are required to provide shade for all employees who choose to remain in the general area of work or in areas designated for recovery and rest periods. Employers may rotate employees in and out of meal periods, like with recovery and rest periods. Employers are not required to provide shade for employees who choose to spend meal periods in their own air-conditioned vehicles. However, employers may not require or pressure employees to eat their lunch in their own vehicles or go off site to eat.