University Interscholastic League heat safety rule takes effect

Beginning Saturday, Aug. 1, all Texas high school football teams, marching bands and other outdoor UIL activities will be required to follow new heat safety protocols based on Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings.

The new policy requires schools to take a WBGT reading within 15 minutes before outdoor activities begin and at least every 30 minutes throughout practices or rehearsals. Unlike standard air temperature, WBGT measures heat stress by factoring in temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation to better reflect the conditions students experience outdoors.

Under the UIL’s heat modification guidelines, schools must begin implementing additional safety measures once the WBGT reaches 82 degrees.