Dirty Steel-Toe Boots, Episode 25: OSHA’s New Proposed Heat Standard and What It Means for Employers

In this episode of Dirty Steel-Toe Boots, Phillip Russell (shareholder, Tampa) is joined by Dee Anna Hays (shareholder, Tampa) to discuss the proposed heat standard that the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued in July 2024. Dee Anna and Phillip discuss key definitions of the new proposal—including heat index and heat illness—and the rule’s scope, in addition to exclusions for emergency response activities, incidental exposures, indoor workers, and teleworkers. Phillip and Dee Anna also explain the proposal’s obligation to designate a heat safety coordinator; to provide water, shade, and breaks; and to modify scheduling to allow for acclimatization.