Update: Proposed OSHA Heat Rule Available Now

Update 7/8/2024

OSHA submitted a draft version of the Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings proposed rule to the Federal Register, seemingly not a moment too soon. On Sunday, July 7, 2024, Las Vegas hit a record-high temperature of 120°F, breaking its old record by three degrees.

If finalized, OSHA’s rule would require employers to identify indoor and outdoor heat hazards, and develop a work site heat injury and illness prevention plan (HIIPP).

See the draft version of OSHA's Proposed Rule.

Original Article 6/14/2024

The OSHA Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH) has unanimously recommended that the agency draft a rule to address the health risks of heat exposure to workers. The committee made the decision after reviewing the basic regulatory framework of a draft rule. 

Press Release: OSHA National News Release: May 8, 2024 (OSHA.gov)

Risk of Heat Exposure in the Workplace

Record-breaking temperatures across the nation have increased the risks people face on-the-job, especially in summer months. Every year, dozens of workers die and thousands more suffer illnesses related to hazardous heat exposure that, sadly, are most often preventable.

Since launching a National Emphasis Program – Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards, OSHA has conducted nearly 5,000 federal heat-related inspections.

Agriculture Prioritized for Inspections

Agricultural industries that employ temporary, nonimmigrant H-2A workers for seasonal labor are being prioritized for programmed inspections. OSHA says these workers face unique vulnerabilities, including potential language barriers, less control over their living and working conditions, and possible lack of acclimatization, and are at high risk of hazardous heat exposure.

By law, employers must protect workers from the dangers of heat exposure and should have a proper safety and health plan in place. At a minimum, employers should provide adequate cool water, rest breaks and shade or a cool rest area. Employees who are new or returning to a high heat workplace should be allowed time to gradually get used to working in hot temperatures. Workers and managers should also be trained so they can identify and help prevent heat illness themselves.

Protect Your Workers from Heat Hazards

The signs of heat-related illnesses may seem obvious. However, the symptoms can mimic numerous other, much less serious conditions. Don’t leave your team’s safety to chance! Lion’s Heat Illness Prevention – Supervisors course prepares supervisors to recognize and protect their teams from the effects of heat stress, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion, among other injuries and illness associated with heat. The course is available online, so you can learn at your own pace and earn useful resources you can save, print, and keep.

Tags: heat safety, osha, workplace health and safety