On June 16, 2025, OSHA hosted a public hearing about its proposed rule to protect workers from heat-related hazards. With temperatures soaring into the 90s and greater, Heat Illness prevention measures should be taken seriously. OSHA reports an average of 40 deaths per year from exposure to environmental heat and has proposed a new rule to protect workers, applicable to both indoor and outdoor workplaces.
The final rule is pending, but will most likely focus on requiring employers to:
The final rule is pending, but will most likely focus on requiring employers to:
- Develop Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plans (HIIPP) that provide comprehensive preventive measures, emergency response procedures, and acclimatization strategies for workers.
- Monitor Heat Conditions and establish protocols to regularly assess heat index levels at job sites.
- Provide Necessary Resources to ensure the availability of water, shaded areas, and rest breaks at every job site during high heat conditions.
- Conduct Training to educate employees about heat-related risks, symptoms, and the importance of hydration and rest.