Heat Safety Should Be Part of Every Employer's Summer Safety Plan

Summer in Kentucky brings long, hot, and humid days. While many employees spend at least part of their workday in climate-controlled environments, others work outdoors or in facilities where high temperatures are unavoidable.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to recognize heat as a significant occupational hazard. OSHA’s proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rule is still under review, but the agency has made it clear that heat safety is an enforcement priority. The agency recently released its National Emphasis Program (NEP) that is effective now through April 2031.

Why Heat Safety Matters

Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly, especially during periods of high temperature and humidity or when employees perform strenuous work. Conditions range from heat cramps and heat exhaustion to heat stroke, which can become life-threatening without immediate treatment.

Certain employees, like new workers who have not yet acclimatized to the heat, employees returning after time away, and employees performing physically demanding tasks, are at an increased risk.



Fortunately, many heat-related illnesses are preventable with planning and consistent workplace policies.

Building a Heat Safety Program

Every workplace is different, but employers should consider incorporating heat safety into their workplace policies. Some practical measures include:

Encourage Hydration and Rest

Provide employees with easy access to cool drinking water and encourage frequent hydration throughout the workday. When temperatures rise, schedule regular rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and consider adjusting workloads or schedules to reduce prolonged heat exposure.

Reduce Heat Exposure

When possible, use controls like air conditioning, fans, improved ventilation, or shaded work and recovery areas. For outdoor work, consider scheduling physically demanding tasks during cooler parts of the day.

Train Employees and Supervisors

Employees should know how to recognize the early signs of heat-related illness in themselves and their coworkers. Supervisors should know when to intervene, how to respond to heat-related emergencies, and how to monitor employees who may be at greater risk.

Prepare for Extreme Heat

Have procedures for heat waves and unexpected situations, like power outages, that may increase workplace temperatures.

Preparing for the Summer Ahead

While OSHA’s proposed heat standard has not been finalized, the agency continues to focus on heat-related hazards through inspections and enforcement. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, improve workplace safety, and better prepare your organization for Kentucky’s hottest months.