OSHA Updates Heat Safety Rules:

What Contractors Need to Know

On April 10, 2026, OSHA updated its program for protecting workers from indoor and outdoor heat hazards. The 2022 program now uses four years of data to target inspections where risk is highest. If you run an industrial or commercial contracting business, this matters.

What's New

Using 2022–2025 inspection and Bureau of Labor Statistics data, OSHA identified 55 industries with high rates of heat illness or past heat-related citations. Those are now the top inspection targets.

The updated program also:

• Drops the old inspection quota. Inspectors will go where the risk is highest.
• Splits the guidance into two clearer sections. One helps inspectors review your heat program; the other covers citation writing.
• Improves tracking so the program works the same way nationwide.
• Updates outdated links and background information.

What Hasn’t Changed

OSHA inspectors will still:

• Offer training and free help to employers
• Add heat to any open inspection when they spot heat hazards on site
• Run random inspections in high-risk industries on heat advisory or warning days

The takeaway: any inspection can pivot to heat the moment something looks wrong. On hot days, contractors in the 55 targeted industries should expect heat on every inspector’s list.

What You Should Do

If you work in a targeted industry, check your heat illness prevention program now. A strong program should include:

• A written plan that fits the work your crews actually do
• Steps to help new and returning workers adjust to heat
• Easy access to water, shade or cool indoor space, and rest breaks
• Training on spotting heat illness and responding in an emergency
• Clear rules for supervisors on monitoring workers and acting fast

OSHA’s new appendix shows exactly what inspectors will check. Use it to review your program first.

The Bottom Line

The program takes effect immediately and runs for five years. Treat heat safety as a seasonal task, and you’ll face an inspection eventually.

OSHA also offers a free, confidential On-Site Consultation Program for small and medium-sized employers. They review your heat program without writing citations.

Need help getting ready? Our team can review your program, find gaps, and build a plan that holds up.