July 07, 2022
OSHA Brings on the Heat Regardless of Industry
From 2011-2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 344 worker-related deaths in U.S. were due to environmental heat exposure. Workplace safety experts believe the actual number of heat-related fatalities may be higher due to under or misreporting as other causes, such as heart attacks.
On July 7th, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reminded employers and workers “not to ignore the dangers of working in hot weather – indoors and out.”
On April 12th, OSHA announced the first-ever national emphasis program (NEP) to protect workers from indoor and outdoor heat hazards. The NEP has identified 70 target industries in which it will initiate inspections.
But its purview is not limited to those 70. “On days when the heat index is 80 F or higher, OSHA inspectors and compliance assistance specialists will engage in proactive outreach and technical assistance to help stakeholders keep workers safe on the job. Inspectors will look for and address heat hazards during inspections, regardless of whether the industry is targeted in the NEP.”
Tips?
- OSHA has an app for that! Check out this heat index app and consider sharing it with your employees who may be subject to heat hazards.
- Consider posting in your workplace or giving employees at risk OSHA’s related poster or handout.
- Give your employees who may be at risk this pocket-sized pamphlet or heat quick card.
- OSHA recommends employers create a heat illness prevention plan, provide worker training, know heat illness first aid; and more. Click here for additional information and resources.
