Texas Schools Mandated to Implement New Heat Safety Protocols for Fall Sports

San Antonio, TX, August 6, 2026 —

Texas schools are now required by the University Interscholastic League (UIL) to adopt new protocols for fall sports practices, focusing on enhanced heat safety measures. This mandate includes all Texas schools, with San Antonio schools specifically mentioned as being affected by the new regulations.

The core of this new initiative is the implementation of Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) protocols. This system is designed to provide a more accurate assessment of heat stress by incorporating several environmental factors: heat, humidity, wind, and sunlight. The UIL’s decision to adopt WBGT aims to proactively address the risks associated with strenuous physical activity in hot weather conditions.

Under these new UIL guidelines, schools must adhere to specific Class 3 recommendations established by the American College of Sports Medicine. Key requirements include the regular measurement of WBGT readings. These measurements must be taken both before and during all fall sports practices.

Furthermore, the protocols establish clear thresholds for action. When the WBGT reaches 82 degrees, schools are required to implement cooling zones. These zones are intended to provide athletes with a respite from the heat and help mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses.

It is important to note that these new WBGT protocols are specifically for practices and do not apply to games. The UIL’s decision to focus on practice sessions is based on the understanding that the majority of heat-related incidents in student athletes occur during these periods of sustained physical exertion.

Story summarized from the original created by Leah Rodriguez, Azian Bermea on www.ksat.com, see more information here.