NSC Statement on OSHA's Proposed Rule Protecting Workers from Extreme Heat Exposure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Safety Council applauds the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for issuing a proposed rule to keep both indoor and outdoor workers safe from heat injury and illness. Death from occupational exposure to excessive heat is never acceptable, and today’s proposed rule ensures all workers remain free from the hazards associated with working in extreme heat conditions.

In 2022, the same year heat caused 46 occupational fatalities, OSHA initiated an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to gather stakeholder input on extreme heat workplace conditions. NSC called for OSHA to create a standard that recognizes the need for controls against extreme heat conditions. Some of these controls include rest breaks, air circulation for indoor and outdoor work environments, supervisor training to recognize impairment due to heat stress, cool drinking water and acclimation plans for employees working in extreme heat settings. Many of the recommendations and best practices advocated by NSC are included in the proposed rule announced today by OSHA. 

Temperatures are rising throughout the country. It is critical employers understand the impact extreme heat has on their operations, including worker health and safety. Employers should establish a written heat injury and illness prevention program and document emergency action plans in order to immediately respond to any signs or symptoms of heat illness. Providing heat awareness and lifesaving training to workers creates not only safer workplaces but also safer communities, as these individuals carry their training with them wherever they go.

NSC, OSHA, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all have resources employers can use to protect their employees from heat stress. NSC looks forward to continuing to collaborate with both industry and government to eliminate preventable occupational injury and illness in the United States. 

About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council is America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate – and has been for 110 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace and roadways. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives.