CA heat illness regs kick in May 1 — audit your kitchen temps now

Panko Alerts · May 12, 2026

Cal/OSHA's heat illness prevention standard applies year-round indoors when temps hit 82°F, and inspectors ramp up kitchen visits once outdoor temps climb in May. Walk your line during peak service with a thermometer — if you're seeing 82°F+ near grills, fryers, or dish pit, you need acclimatization procedures, extra water access, and shade/cool-down areas documented. Your injury log will get scrutinized hard if someone goes down with heat exhaustion and you can't show compliance with Title 8 CCR Section 3395. Set phone reminders to check temps during your busiest/hottest shifts this week and document the readings.

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Source: Panko Alerts