A First-Ever Federal Heat Rule for Workers Moves Toward the Finish Line

Heat is the deadliest weather hazard for American workers, and for the first time there may be a nationwide federal rule built specifically to address it. OSHA’s proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention standard is working its way toward finalization — but it is important to be precise: it is proposed, not yet final.

What the rule would require

If finalized, it would be the first federal heat standard, requiring employers to evaluate and control heat for both indoor and outdoor work. The proposal uses two triggers:

• At a heat index of about 80°F, employers would have to provide basics like drinking water, rest breaks, and access to shade or cooling.
• At about 90°F, additional protections would kick in, such as mandatory rest breaks and closer monitoring for heat illness.

The proposed standard would reach employers across general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture.

Where it stands

OSHA published the proposal as a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on August 30, 2024, and it has been moving through the rulemaking process since. Until it is finalized, it does not yet impose these obligations — so this is a development to watch, not a rule in force.

What it means for you

Even today, the Occupational Safety and Health Act already gives you the right to a workplace free of recognized serious hazards — and extreme heat can qualify. You also keep the right to refuse work that puts you in imminent danger and to report unsafe conditions without retaliation. To go deeper, read our breakdown of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and our guide on refusing unsafe work.

Educational only — not legal advice.