Biden-Harris administration’s proposed rule to protect indoor, outdoor workers from extreme heat’s dangers opens for public comment

The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the opening of the public comment period for its proposed rule intended to protect millions of workers from the significant health risks of extreme heat and its publication in the Federal Register.

Announced in July 2024 by the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the rule – if finalized – would help protect approximately 36 million workers in indoor and outdoor work settings and substantially reduce workplace heat injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

OSHA encourages public participation in the rulemaking process as it will help the agency develop a final rule that adequately protects workers, is feasible for employers and is based on the best available evidence.

Submit comments to Docket Number OSHA-2021-0009. Directions on how to submit comments are included in the Federal Register notice. OSHA anticipates holding a public hearing after the close of the written comment period, with details to be announced.