The Department of Labor has released a proposed rule with the goal of "protecting millions of workers from the significant health risks of extreme heat."

On June 16, the agency will begin a five-day informal rulemaking hearing that will elicit testimony from labor groups, and a variety of industry groups. On June 18, Betsy Natz, CEO of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association, will provide detailed information on how the heat plan will affect the organization's members.

For a full schedule, click here. 

 The live stream for each day's discussion are available on OSHA's rulemaking webpage.

The proposed rule, Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings, would require employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by excessive heat. Among other things, the plan would require employers to evaluate heat risks and — when heat increases risks to workers — implement requirements for drinking water, rest breaks and control of indoor heat. It would also require a plan to protect new or returning workers unaccustomed to working in high heat conditions.

In manufacturing settings, factors like poor ventilation, heavy PPE, and inadequate cooling systems often worsen the situation, creating an effect where hot air lingers and temperatures steadily climb. With the growing frequency and severity of heat waves, possibly influenced by climate change, this problem will only worsen, and businesses must adapt swiftly.

The impact of heat on workers in indoor manufacturing environments is substantial. Studies have shown that many of these workers, particularly in non-air conditioned spaces near hot machinery or furnaces, often experience symptoms of heat illness. Studies also suggest that heat stress can impair physical and cognitive performance, increasing the risk of work-related injuries.

“Workers all over the country are passing out, suffering heat stroke and dying from heat exposure from just doing their jobs, and something must be done to protect them,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Douglas L. Parker. “Today’s proposal is an important next step in the process to receive public input to craft a ‘win-win’ final rule that protects workers while being practical and workable for employers.”