Texas UIL Guidelines for Heat

The UIL, University Interscholastic League, is the state-level organization based in Texas that governs extracurricular academic, athletic, and music competitions for public schools in the state. In 2023, the UIL approved Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) as the recommended forecast measurement to be used to monitor environmental conditions during outdoor physical activities.

UIL schools are recommended to utilize WBGT to monitor practice and workout conditions and alter practices as outlined in the chart below based on recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine.

Texas has two regional categories based on the outlined regions and recommendations. There are five levels based on the WGBT:

Measuring WGBT

Schools should use a scientifically approved instrument that measures Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) or other scientifically proven method, such as an internet-based weather station software or application. 

• The instrument should be set up 30 minutes prior to practice and should be read 15 minutes prior to the start of practice. If utilizing an internet-based application, the WBGT should also be checked at the 15-minute mark prior to practice.
• In both cases, WBGT readings should be taken every 30 minutes during practice.

To prevent heat-related illness, the UIL also requires:

1. Rapid Cooling Access - Each member school’s emergency action plan must include procedures to address heat emergencies that include onsite rapid cooling using cold-water immersion or equivalent means.
2. Rapid cooling zones - Zones must be available for each outdoor athletic and marching band contest, practice, workout, or conditioning session that is held in wet bulb globe temperatures of 80 degrees or higher. Rapid cooling zones are required to have immediate availability of cold-water immersion tubs or tarps that can be filled with ice and water and wrapped around individuals to rapidly cool internal body temperature (TACO method) and are 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.
3. Water - Coaches and directors must adopt a heat injury prevention philosophy by promoting unrestricted access to water at all times and a student- athlete should never be denied access to water.
4. Rest Breaks - Rest breaks must involve unlimited hydration intake and rest without any activity involved.

Competitions

1. WBGT practice guidelines and limitations do not apply to UIL competitions
2. Any competition played in WBGT of 80.0 degrees or higher must have a rapid cooling zone on site

Sources

1. https://www.uiltexas.org/health/info/
2. https://www.uiltexas.org/health/info/heat-stress-and-athletic-participation
3. https://www.uiltexas.org/health/info/heat-stress-information-and-resources