DOL Seeks Extreme Heat Workplace Rule Input

The U.S. Department of Labor is seeking public input on a proposal to address excessive heat in the workplace. 

The proposed rule was first unveiled in July.

It applies to all employers conducting work in outdoor and indoor settings across all general industries where OSHA has jurisdiction. 

The intent is to protect approximately 36 million indoor and outdoor workers and reduce workplace heat injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

Proposed Rule

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2011 to 2022 shows an average of 40 heat-related fatalities annually. 

The proposal requires employers to identify and evaluate heat risks, develop emergency response plans, and train employees about signs and symptoms of heat illness. 

The proposal requires employers to identify and evaluate heat risks, develop emergency response plans, and train employees.

If adopted, it would be the country’s first major regulation related to heat exposure. 

Various business organizations, including the Construction Industry Safety Coalition have expressed concern with a general regulation that spans across many industries. 

Public Comment

In a news release, OSHA said it hopes to use the public comment period to develop a final rule that “adequately protects workers, is feasible for employers and is based on the best available evidence.”

Comments can be submitted online through Dec. 30, 2024.

As of publication, OSHA has received more than 226,000 comments.

Comments can be submitted online through Dec. 30, 2024.

The agency also plans to hold a public hearing after the written comment period ends. 

As OSHA officials develop the final rule, the agency is continuing inspections under a national emphasis program. 

Since the program’s launch in 2022, OSHA has conducted more than 5,000 federal heat-related inspections.