Current statewide policy · last source review

Massachusetts WBGT rules for high school sports.

Massachusetts requires a scientifically approved WBGT instrument at each activity and uses five statewide modification bands for practices and competitions.

What coaches need to know

Up to 76.0°F WBGT: normal activity with three 3-minute breaks each hour.
76.1–81.0°F: use discretion, watch at-risk athletes, and provide three 4-minute breaks each hour.
81.1–84.0°F: maximum 2-hour activity, four breaks each hour, and protective-equipment limits.
84.1–86.0°F: maximum 1-hour activity, 20 minutes of rest, no protective equipment or conditioning, and cooling-zone supplies.
86.1°F and above: no outdoor workouts; competitions may continue only through 86.0°F.

Heat Modification Policy

MIAA requires a scientifically approved WBGT instrument at each activity. The policy applies to practices and competitions; competition may continue through 86.0°F because normal game pauses provide recovery. Indoor events without climate control should also be measured.

Condition	What the coach does
WBGT up to 76°	Normal activity Provide at least three separate 3-minute rest breaks each hour.
WBGT 76.1°–81°	Use discretion and watch at-risk athletes Provide at least three separate 4-minute rest breaks each hour. Watch at-risk athletes carefully.
WBGT 81.1°–84°	Limit activity to 2 hours Limit activity to 2 hours. Provide at least four separate 4-minute rest breaks each hour. Equipment-intensive sports: helmets, shoulder pads, and shorts only; remove all protective equipment for conditioning. Do not hold a game if equipment must be modified.
WBGT 84.1°–86°	Limit activity to 1 hour Limit activity to 1 hour. Provide 20 minutes of rest during the hour. Do not wear protective equipment or conduct conditioning. Provide ice water and towels in the cooling zone. Competitions may continue through 86.0°F; no game should occur if equipment modification is necessary.
WBGT 86.1° and above	No outdoor workout Cancel exercise and delay activity until a cooler WBGT reading occurs.

Source reviewed 2026-07-30. An on-site WBGT reading is required for the official call.

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Use the current governing document. Local schools, districts, leagues, activities, and medical staff may apply additional or stricter requirements.

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