The U.S. Department of Labor has opened the public comment period for its proposed rule intended to protect millions of workers from the significant health risks of extreme heat.

Individuals protected by the proposed rule include employees working outdoors or indoors in general industry, construction, maritime and agricultural sectors where OSHA has jurisdiction. This includes many occupations where workers are at high risk of heat hazards, such as farmworkers, restaurant workers, construction workers, delivery drivers, and many more.

OSHA monitors states that have established State Plans, but said those must be at least as effective in protecting workers and in preventing work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.

By law, employers must protect workers from the dangers of heat exposure and should have a proper safety and health plan in place. At a minimum, the labor department said employers should provide adequate cool water, rest breaks and shade or a cool rest area. Employees who are new or returning to a high heat workplace should also be allowed time to gradually get used to working in hot temperatures, the agency said.

Announced in July 2024 by the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 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.

Related:Department of Labor takes critical step in heat safety rulemaking

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 on December 30, with details to be announced.