Federal regulators are advancing a nationwide heat stress standard that would impose new requirements on employers, including manufacturers. An Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) proposal would require protective measures once the heat index reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with additional safeguards required at 90 degrees. Employers would be expected to provide access to drinking water, shaded or cooled rest areas, ongoing monitoring of conditions, heat risk assessments, and employee training programs. The proposal has already generated nearly 50,000 public comments, many of which caution that a uniform, one-size-fits-all rule could place significant burdens on facilities with diverse operations and job demands.

The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) is closely tracking this rulemaking as part of its broader focus on workplace safety, OSHA inspections and workers’ compensation trends. The heat stress discussion comes at a time when employers are reviewing year-end safety practices and preparing for updates tied to Bureau of Workers’ Compensation grants and cost-containment programs. OMA members with questions or training needs are encouraged to contact the OMA team for support. 12/3/2025