Make Heat Safety a Priority.
OSHA announced a new National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect workers from heat hazards.
Find out what these changes mean for you, including new regulations, training responsibilities, and how to be prepared for a heat safety inspection.
Heat Hazards NEP
Like it or not, summers seem to be getting hotter and hotter. In fact, according to OSHA, 18 of the last 19 summers have been the hottest on record.
With more than 3,500 heat-related injuries and illnesses in the construction industry each year, and record-highs in heat hazard citations, OSHA has turned its attention to heat safety.
This new NEP puts the responsibility on construction site supervisors and employers to protect their workers from heat hazards.
Employer Responsibilities
It's always your responsibility to provide a workplace free from any known safety hazards. This includes protecting workers from extreme heat.
Employers are expected to:
• Provide workers with water, rest, and shade
• Have a plan for slowly acclimating new and returning workers to the heat
• Train supervisors to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses
• Have a plan for monitoring employees and responding to heat-related emergencies
Be Prepared for an OSHA Inspection
OSHA inspectors will proactively search for heat-related hazards on job sites.
When the heat index is above 80 degrees, or when a local area has been placed under a heat advisory, OSHA will conduct inspections in search of heat hazards.
In fact, if a CSHO drives by your worksite and notices anyone working in the heat, they are required to stop and investigate.
To help you crack down on heat safety before OSHA does, we developed a heat hazards safety guide, also available as a presentation and video, to help get your team compliant fast.
