Beginning Aug. 1, the University Interscholastic League (UIL) is requiring Texas schools to use the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) readings to determine if it is safe for student athletes to exercise or practice outdoors. The (WBGT) metric estimates the combined effect of temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation using readings from three thermometers.
The UIL is now requiring all schools in Texas to implement its use. The chart varies depending on geographic region; West Texas falls under a class two designation.
Schools are now required to take temperature readings 15 minutes before practice begins and every 30 minutes during practice. UIL recommends the same person, if possible, takes all readings during the practice.
The guidelines have five categories using WBGT as the main measurement; safe, caution, high risk, very high risk, and extreme risk: --Below 79.7 WBGT, safe, good conditions, normal practice, provide water breaks.
--79.7-84.6 WBGT, caution, heat stress is possible, rapid cooling area required, extra hydration and rest breaks, and athletes monitored closely.
--84.7-87.6 WBGT, high risk, heat illness may occur, no full pads for football, practice time reduced, four rest breaks of at least four minutes per hour.
--87.7-89.7 WBGT, very high risk, heat illness is likely, practice is limited to one hour, more equipment restrictions, and rest and cooling is the priority.
-- Above 89.8 WBGT, Extreme risk, heat illness is very likely, No outdoor practice, move to an indoor facility or cancel.
The new guidelines raise questions about schools with indoor facilities having an advantage over schools that do not have one as well as parents questioning why football is a summer and fall sport instead of winter due to heat issues.
Zach Yeager, athletic secretary for A&M Consolidated High School on Facebook wrote, “As someone who works in high school athletics in Texas, I think the push for indoor facilities will be coming soon.”
UIL requires rapid cooling zones be immediately available or cold-water immersion tubs or tarps to rapidly cool internal body temperature.
Schools are also encouraged to include a combination of the following options: ice sponges, towels, water misters, and shade. The presence of an employee or volunteer trained to administer cold-water immersion is recommended.