On April 8, 2022, OSHA launched its National Emphasis Program(NEP) to protect workers from heat-related hazards in indoor and outdoor workplaces. Through the program, OSHA will conduct workplace inspections aimed at identifying heat-related hazards before workers suffer preventable injuries, illnesses or fatalities.
This NEP applies to all industries. The NEP became effective on April 8, 2022, and will remain in effect for three years, unless canceled or extended by a superseding directive.
The NEP established heat priority days, when the heat index is expected to be 8- degrees Fahrenheit or higher. On those priority days, OSHA will:
The NEP encourages employers to protect their workers from heat-related hazards during heat priority days by providing them with access to water, rest, shade and adequate training, as well as implementing acclimatization procedures for new or returning employees.
Employers should review the NEP and implement adequate policies and procedures to prevent heat-related illnesses and fatalities among workers.
General steps that employers can take to materially reduce or eliminate workers’ exposure to heat-related hazards include:
April 8, 2022
On this date, the NEP went into effect.
May 3, 2022
Stakeholder meeting being held on OSHA’s ongoing efforts to protect workers from heat-related hazards.
April 8, 2025
On this date, the NEP is scheduled to expire.