OSHA Extends National Emphasis Program on Heat-Related Hazards for Another Year
Posted by Clarion Safety Systems | 7th Feb 2025
In an ongoing effort to protect workers from the dangers of extreme heat, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced a one-year extension of its National Emphasis Program (NEP) on outdoor and indoor heat-related hazards. Originally set to expire on April 8, 2025 this extension underscores OSHA’s commitment to mitigating the risks associated with heat exposure in the workplace. This decision aligns with OSHA's broader efforts to establish a permanent heat illness prevention standard, which is currently under review. The new expiration date has been updated to April 8, 2026 or until superseded by an updated directive.
Success and Impact of the NEP
Since its inception in April 2022, the NEP has played a pivotal role in identifying and addressing heat-related hazards across various industries. According to an OSHA notice published on January 16, 2025, the program has successfully removed nearly 1,400 employees from hazardous heat conditions. Additionally, OSHA has conducted approximately 7,000 heat-related inspections and issued 60 citations for violations of the General Duty Clause. The agency has also distributed nearly 1,400 hazard alert letters to employers, reinforcing the importance of workplace heat safety.
The NEP has significantly increased OSHA’s focus on heat hazards compared to previous years. Between 2015 and 2020, the agency averaged only 200 heat-related inspections annually, including approximately 15 fatality inspections each year. The dramatic rise in inspections since 2022 highlights the program’s effectiveness in identifying at-risk industries and enforcing safety measures. Given the growing frequency of extreme heat events, OSHA is actively working toward finalizing a permanent heat safety regulation.
How the NEP Works
Under the NEP, OSHA targets more than 70 “high-risk” industries for heat-related inspections whenever the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a heat warning or advisory in a specific area. The program also emphasizes proactive engagement, with OSHA providing outreach and technical assistance when the heat index reaches at least 80°F. This approach ensures that both employers and employees are well-informed about the risks of heat exposure and the necessary preventive measures.
Furthermore, OSHA compliance safety and health officers are trained to identify heat hazards during all inspections, regardless of whether the visit was initially prompted by heat concerns. This comprehensive strategy ensures that heat safety remains a priority across workplaces nationwide.
OSHA’s Heat Safety Rulemaking Efforts
While the NEP remains a critical tool in addressing heat hazards, OSHA is also in the process of developing a permanent heat illness prevention standard. The proposed rule aims to establish clear, enforceable guidelines for employers to follow, filling a gap in existing workplace safety regulations. This standard is expected to include:
- Temperature Triggers: Defined thresholds based on heat index measurements that activate mandatory safety protocols like increased hydration access, rest breaks, and administrative controls such as adjusting work schedules.
- Acclimatization Procedures: Gradual exposure plans for new or returning workers to allow their bodies to adjust safely to hot environments.
- Mandatory Rest Breaks: Breaks with increased duration and frequency as temperatures rise.
- Employee Training: Comprehensive training on heat illness prevention strategies, recognizing symptoms, proper hydration, and responding to emergencies.
- Written Heat Illness Prevention Programs: Documented plans outlining specific heat safety measures tailored to each workplace.
Preparing for the New Standard
While the specifics of the final standard are still under review, employers can take proactive steps, including:
- Staying informed about OSHA’s ongoing rulemaking process and training materials.
- Implementing workplace heat illness prevention measures now, including acclimatization, hydration, shade, and rest provisions.
- Ensuring compliance with OSHA’s General Duty Clause, which already allows the agency to cite employers for heat-related violations.
On June 11, 2024, OSHA submitted its proposed heat safety standard to the White House's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) for review. The rule was published in the Federal Register and the public comment closed on January 14, 2025. It is now moving towards a public hearing on June 16, 2025 where relevant stakeholders can ask questions, provide testimony, and more. While the review process has no fixed timeline, potential legal and compliance challenges may slow its implementation.
Support from Clarion Safety Systems and Machine Safety Specialists
Our team at Clarion Safety and Machine Safety Specialists is here to help with your risk reduction and visual safety communication needs. We offer an extensive collection of OSHA, ANSI, and ISO compliant safety signage. If you need help determining what signs are appropriate for your workplace – or are in need of custom options – reach out to a member of our safety team today!