US | OSHA to Address Heat-Related Illnesses

OSHA’s new intervention and enforcement initiative prioritizes heat-related interventions and inspections of work activities on days when the heat index exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The initiative applies to both indoor and outdoor worksites in general industry, construction, agriculture, and maritime where potential heat hazards exist. OSHA encourages employers to address heat priority days proactively by providing regular breaks for water, rest, and shade. Employers should take periodic measurements to determine workers’ heat exposure and train workers to identify common symptoms and what to do when a worker suspects a heat-related illness is occurring. OSHA Area Directors will prioritize inspections of heat-related complaints, referrals, and employer-reported illnesses and initiate an onsite investigation where possible. Directors will also instruct their compliance safety and health officers to conduct an intervention or open an inspection when they observe employees performing strenuous work in hot conditions. Officers can also expand the scope of other inspections to address heat-related hazards where worksite conditions or other evidence indicate these hazards may be present.

Looking Ahead

In October 2021, OSHA will issue an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on heat injury and illness prevention in outdoor and indoor work settings. In 2022, OSHA will establish a National Emphasis Program targeting high-risk industries and focus resources and staff time on heat inspections. The program will use the existing Regional Emphasis Program for Heat Illnesses from OSHA’s Region VI.