Heat is the leading cause of death among all hazardous weather conditions in the United States—and it doesn’t just strike outdoors. Workers in both outdoor and indoor settings face serious health risks when exposed to high temperatures, especially without proper climate control or cooling measures.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 479 U.S. workers died from environmental heat exposure between 2011 and 2022—an average of 40 deaths per year. From 2011 to 2020, an estimated 33,890 work-related heat injuries and illnesses resulted in days away from work, averaging 3,389 per year. These numbers are likely vast underestimates, due in part to underreporting and the difficulty of attributing symptoms to heat exposure.
As summers get hotter and heatwaves become more frequent across the U.S., employers are under increasing pressure to protect workers from the dangers of heat exposure. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has made it clear: hazardous heat in the workplace is a deadly and preventable problem.
While there is no federal heat standard yet, OSHA actively enforces protections under the General Duty Clause and has launched a National Emphasis Program (NEP) targeting heat-related hazards and proposed a rule to protect workers.
Here’s what employers need to know to stay compliant and keep workers safe.
In this Article:
- What is heat illness?
- OSHA’s position on heat protection
- Key elements of heat illness prevention
- Posting and communication requirements
- Looking ahead: Prepare now for future compliance
What is heat illness?
Heat illness occurs when the body cannot cool itself efficiently. It ranges from mild conditions like heat rash and heat cramps to more serious disorders such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, the latter of which can be fatal.
Workers in construction, agriculture, landscaping, warehousing, manufacturing, and other labor-intensive sectors are especially vulnerable—particularly when working outdoors or in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. In addition, certain groups face disproportionate risks:
- Pregnant workers
- Workers of color, particularly in essential jobs, like agriculture, construction, warehouses, and delivery services
- Indoor workers near machinery or heat-generating equipment (e.g., furnaces and hot tar kettles)
OSHA’s position on heat protection
Under the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, employers are required to provide a workplace “free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.” OSHA considers heat a recognized hazard—and the failure to address it can result in citations.
In April 2022, OSHA launched a National Emphasis Program on Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards, increasing inspections during heat events and prioritizing industries with high exposure risks.
On August 30, 2024, OSHA published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. If adopted, the new standard would require employers to create and implement a written heat hazard prevention plan; to establish procedures for evaluating, controlling, and monitoring heat hazards; and to clarify employer responsibilities for protecting workers in both outdoor and indoor heat-prone environments. A hearing on the proposed rule was held in the summer of 2025, with post-hearing comments from individuals and organizations due by October 30, 2025.
Key elements of heat illness prevention
Until there is a federal standard, OSHA recommends that employers implement a Heat Illness Prevention Program that includes these elements:
- Provide access to water, rest, and shade: Encourage workers to drink cool water every 15 to 20 minutes, take rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and avoid overexertion during peak heat hours.
- Acclimatize workers: Gradually increase workloads and allow more frequent breaks for new or returning workers as they adjust to working in the heat.
- Offer training: Educate workers and supervisors about the signs and symptoms of heat illness, the importance of hydration, and how to respond to emergencies.
- Plan for emergencies: Develop clear procedures for responding to heat-related illnesses, including when and how to contact emergency medical services.
- Monitor conditions: Use heat index tools or monitoring devices to track environmental conditions and adjust workloads accordingly.
Posting and communication requirements
While OSHA does not currently require a dedicated poster for heat illness prevention, it strongly encourages publicizing heat safety procedures through workplace signage, training materials, and safety meetings. Employers should also review their state’s occupational safety regulations, as some states have their own enforceable heat illness prevention standards that include specific signage and policy requirements.
Looking ahead: Prepare now for future compliance
With a federal heat standard on the horizon, it’s wise for employers to begin aligning their practices with OSHA’s recommended prevention strategies. Taking action now not only reduces the risk of fines or citations—it saves lives.
Poster Compliance Center helps businesses stay on top of evolving labor law poster requirements. While heat illness prevention is not yet a federal posting requirement, we offer customizable workplace safety posters and resources that support OSHA training and education efforts.
Be ready for the heat—protect your workers, your business, and your peace of mind.
