OSHA Issuing New Rules on Heat Injury Prevention in Workplace

The new proposed OSHA rules for heat injury prevention in the workplace aim to address the significant health risks posed by excessive heat to workers. Here are the key points you need to know:

• Scope and Applicability: The proposed rule applies to all employers in industries where workers are exposed to excessive heat, including general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture sectors. It covers both indoor and outdoor work environments.
• Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan: Employers will be required to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to manage and mitigate heat hazards. This includes evaluating heat risks, providing adequate drinking water, scheduling rest breaks, and controlling indoor heat.
• Heat Triggers and Requirements:
  • Initial Heat Trigger: At a heat index of 80°F, employers must ensure access to drinking water, provide break areas, and implement acclimatization procedures for new and returning employees.
  • High Heat Trigger: At a heat index of 90°F, employers must provide additional measures such as a 15-minute paid rest break every two hours, warnings for high heat areas, and immediate action for workers showing signs of heat illness.
• Training and Education: Employers are required to train supervisors and employees on heat-related risks, symptoms of heat illness, and emergency response procedures.
• Monitoring and Reporting: The proposed rule mandates monitoring workplace heat conditions and maintaining records of heat-related incidents and responses.
• Special Provisions: Certain workers and situations are exempt from some requirements, such as those performing sedentary work in air-conditioned environments and short-duration exposures to high temperatures.

The goal is to have a practical and workable standard that effectively protects workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses​. MTI’s Safety Committee, with the advisement of MTI’s Safety Consultant, Rick Kaletsky, are tracking the progress of the heat injury protection rule. As the rules develop, the Safety Committee will provide best practices and guidance on implementing an effective safety policy for this issue in your plant. 

To view full details on the heat injury prevention rules, CLICK HERE to view OSHA website.