The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has introduced a significant new rule aimed at protecting millions of workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries. This proposal comes at a crucial time, as rising global temperatures continue to make extreme heat a more frequent hazard in workplaces across the United States. But what does this mean for employers and employees? Let’s break down the essentials of the proposed heat safety rule, providing context for its importance and the steps businesses should take to prepare.

Extreme heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the United States, with hundreds of workers succumbing to heat-related illnesses each year​. OSHA’s new rule targets this escalating problem by establishing the first-ever federal heat protection standard. The rule applies to both indoor and outdoor work settings, affecting industries ranging from agriculture to construction to restaurant kitchens​.

Currently, no federal standard directly addresses heat-related workplace hazards, leaving workers vulnerable as temperatures soar. States like California and Washington have led the way with their own heat safety regulations, but this proposed rule would extend protections nationwide, covering approximately 36 million workers​(

The rule introduces two key heat index thresholds that trigger specific protections:

-At 80°F, employers must provide access to cool drinking water, break areas with shade or air-conditioning, and enforce acclimatization plans for new or returning employees​. 

-When the heat index reaches 90°F, more stringent measures kick in. Employers must offer 15-minute paid rest breaks every two hours, monitor workers for signs of heat illness, and ensure that employees working alone are checked on regularly​.

Employers would be required to appoint a heat safety coordinator responsible for overseeing the implementation of the heat injury prevention plan. This individual plays a critical role in ensuring workers are safe and the company complies with OSHA regulations​.

Nearly 75% of heat-related deaths occur in the first week of work, often due to a lack of acclimatization​. 
The new policy mandates that employers gradually expose new and returning workers to heat, helping their bodies adjust safely. This could mean limiting exposure times or alternating between cooler tasks during the hottest parts of the day.

Training is essential. All employees must be educated on the dangers of heat exposure, how to prevent heat illness, and what to do in an emergency. Supervisors, in particular, will need specialized training to recognize signs of heat-related illnesses and take immediate action when necessary

A pattern of more frequent and intense of heatwaves has had a real impact on the workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 34,000 heat-related injuries occurred between 2011 and 2020. As these injuries increase, so too do the costs for businesses—from medical expenses to lost productivity. OSHA’s proposed change is designed to mitigate these risks by standardizing heat protections across industries​.

While the rule is still in the public comment phase, and may be adjusted, businesses can start preparing by implementing voluntary heat safety measures. 

Some steps include:

Staying ahead of these changes is not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring the well-being of your people. Employers who take a proactive approach to heat safety will protect their employees and ultimately improve productivity and morale.

OSHA’s proposed heat protection rule represents a major shift in workplace safety, offering much-needed safeguards in an era of rising temperatures. By understanding the requirements and taking steps to implement best practices, businesses can create safer, more resilient workplaces. The public comment period is open until December 30, 2024, giving employers and employees alike the opportunity to weigh in on the final shape of these new protections.

Axios HR is committed to helping you provide a safe, positive, and efficient workplace for your employees. If you are considering implementing new policies in your business, or are worried about how you are going to comply with any new employment policy in the legal pipeline, Axios HR has compliance professionals who can help walk alongside you every step of the way.