For the first time, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) launched a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to protect workers from indoor and outdoor heat-related hazards.
According to the U.S Department of Labor, OSHA will "conduct heat-related workplace inspections before workers suffer completely preventable injuries, illnesses or, even worse, fatalities."
Heat illness affects thousands of indoor and outdoor workers each year and can tragically lead to death.
Of the 70 high-risk industries that the NEP covers, automotive parts, accessories, and tire stores; automotive repair and maintenance; and car dealers are included.
When the National Weather Service issues a heat warning or advisory for a local area, OSHA will proactively initiate inspections across the targeted industries.
On days when the heat index is 80 degrees F or higher, OSHA inspectors and compliance assistance specialists will engage in proactive outreach and technical assistance in the high-risk industries to keep workers safe on the job. Additionally, they will look for and address heat hazards during inspections, regardless of whether the industry is within a targeted industry the NEP, reported U.S. Department of Labor.
“Our goal is to make it safe for workers in hot indoor and outdoor environments, so that they can return home safe and healthy at the end of each day,” said Assistant Secretary for OSHA Doug Parker in the news release. “Working together, we can ensure workers know their rights and employers meet their obligations in order to protect workers from the growing dangers of extreme heat.”
OSHA’s area offices will engage in outreach to unions, employers in target industries and other organizations committed to advancing protections for underserved workers. The agency’s On-Site Consultation Program, a free and confidential health and safety consulting program for small- and medium-sized businesses, will assist employers in developing strategic approaches for addressing heat-related illnesses and injuries in workplaces.
Click here for OSHA’s National Emphasis Program fact sheet.
