The New Jersey, US, is currently considering a new bill that targets heat safety on synthetic turf fields. When adopted, the measure would apply to schools, municipalities, colleges and recreational organizations but not to semi-professionals or professional teams.

If enacted, the law would require water breaks every 30 minutes when the ambient temperature is up to 26 degrees Celsius or even every 10 minutes when the ambient temperature is 35 degrees.

The two assemblywomen would like to see a game to be suspended when the temperature is over 37 degrees or to be moved indoors.

The proposed law appears to be reasonable.

To protect employees working outdoors, the US Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) recommends precautions to be taken as soon as temperatures are up to 26 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above 33 degrees are deemed high-risk. OSHA does not dictate a specific temperature at which workings should halt their operations because it is deemed unsafe.

European stance?

In the UK, the following is advised:

> 24°C                   Increase hydration, reduce intensity, allow more breaks

27–30°C               Caution strongly advised — avoid intense activity, especially in the sun

> 30°C                   Sporting activity is generally discouraged, particularly for children, older adults, and in endurance events

> 32°C                   Strong recommendation to cancel or postpone events/training, especially outdoors

In the Netherlands, a country with the highest synthetic turf density in the world, the national institute for health (RIVM) and national Olympic committee advice to postpone training sessions or games when the ambient temperature is over 27 degrees Celsius.