25. Artificial humidification.— Employer of every factory in which humidity of the air is artificially increased shall ensure that:-

(i) if employees are exposed in all or some of their tasks to extreme heat and high humidity, and the hazard cannot be eliminated, then the risks to safety and health shall be assessed and the controls necessary to reduce the hazard or risks shall be effected;

(ii) the above risk assessment takes into account including the use of appropriate protective clothing against hazardous substances that can increase the risk of heat stress and also that respiratory protectors are uncomfortable and less likely to be used in extremely hot working environments;

(iii) where part of the risk arises from the metabolic heat produced during work or from direct exposure to sunlight and high outdoor air temperatures and when other methods of eliminating the risk are impracticable, a work-rest cycle for exposed employees, preferably in a shaded, air-conditioned or cooler resting space shall be provided to allow the employee to recover;

(iv) to maintain hydration, sufficient quantities of drinking water, with the proper electrolytes, where appropriate, are provided at easily accessible places;

(v) where a residual risk of heat stress remains even after all the practical control measures have been taken, employees are to be adequately supervised so that they can be withdrawn from the hot and humid conditions if symptoms occur. Also, that first-aid facilities, and staff is trained in the use of such facilities, are available;

(vi) employees exposed to extreme hot and humid conditions are instructed and trained:

(a) to recognise symptoms which may lead to heat stress, in themselves or others, and the steps to be taken to prevent onset and or emergencies; and

(b) in the action to be taken in the event of the increased risk of accidents because of high temperatures or humidity;

(vii) tests for determining the relative humidity of the air are carried out and recorded and if humidity level of the air is found to be harmful to the health of employees, it is artificially regulated in such a manner that humidification and temperature do not cause discomfort to employees and the water used for the purpose is taken from public supply or other source of drinking water or is purified before it is so used;

(viii) Instruments for measurement and recording of humidity and temperature at appropriate location are provided and maintained.