As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat-related illness in the workplace. To help protect workers, OSHA has extended its National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards through April 8, 2026. Originally set to expire in 2025, this extension allows OSHA to continue identifying and addressing heat risks across a variety of work environments.
The NEP targets both indoor and outdoor workplaces where heat exposure is a concern, including industries like manufacturing, construction, landscaping, retail, restaurants, wholesalers, and bakeries. OSHA launched the program in 2022 in response to growing numbers of heat-related injuries and fatalities, especially as climate change continues to impact working conditions.
Since the program began, OSHA has conducted approximately 7,000 heat-related inspections, issued 60 heat citations, and sent 1,392 Hazard Alert Letters to employers. These efforts have helped protect nearly 1,400 employees from hazardous heat exposure, marking a major increase in enforcement compared to previous years.
With the extension of the NEP, OSHA and state agencies will continue programmed and unprogrammed inspections, focusing especially on fatalities, complaints, and referrals tied to heat hazards. Compliance support and outreach efforts will also continue, especially during the summer months.
What Can Employers Do Next?
Now is the time for employers to review and strengthen their heat illness prevention programs. A solid plan should include:
- Access to cool drinking water and shaded rest areas
- Acclimatization protocols for new or returning workers
- Training on how to spot and respond to heat stress symptoms
- Monitoring environmental conditions
- Scheduling rest breaks during extreme heat
While OSHA works on a proposed federal standard, many state programs have already implemented or are developing their own rules. The NEP gives businesses a clear framework to follow, helping you stay ahead of inspections and keep your employees safe.
Upcoming Important Date
As part of the rulemaking process, OSHA has scheduled a public hearing on June 16 for their heat illness rule. This will be a key milestone, giving labor and industry stakeholders an opportunity to weigh in before any version of the federal heat illness rule is finalized. We expect to have a clearer picture of the rule’s future following this date.
In Conclusion
By proactively reviewing your heat illness prevention program, you can reduce workplace risks and stay prepared for potential OSHA inspections. At UniqueHR, we understand the importance of keeping your employees safe, especially during the hot summer months. If you have questions about how this update may affect your business or need guidance on staying compliant, give us a call at 800.824.8367 for a free consultation.
