OSHAProposed Rule

Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings

Labor & WorkplaceHealthcare

Summary

This proposed rule would establish the first federal standard to protect approximately 36 million indoor and outdoor workers from heat-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Employers would be required to develop heat illness prevention plans, provide water and shade, allow rest breaks, and implement acclimatization protocols when the heat index reaches specified thresholds.

Key Points

  • 1Requires employers to create written heat injury and illness prevention plans
  • 2Establishes an initial heat trigger at a heat index of 80°F and a high heat trigger at 90°F
  • 3Mandates access to cool drinking water, shade, and paid rest breaks
  • 4Requires gradual acclimatization for new or returning workers over 7 to 14 days
  • 5Covers both outdoor and indoor work environments including warehouses and kitchens

Impact Assessment

If you are a worker or employer in outdoor or indoor industries, this means you must implement heat safety plans, provide water and shade, allow rest breaks, and follow acclimatization protocols when heat index thresholds are reached.

Impact Level
Major
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Significant

Who is Affected
Small BusinessesManufacturersWorkers/LaborersFarmers

Key Dates

Published

July 22, 2024

Comment Deadline

January 22, 2025

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Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
29 CFR Part 191029 CFR Part 1915

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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