OSHA could crack down on businesses that don't protect employees from the heat

by Lisa Rantala

Mon, June 23rd 2025 at 4:42 PM

Updated Mon, June 23rd 2025 at 6:40 PM

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The federal government is considering implementing new regulations to protect workers from excessive heat, a leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. Hearings on the proposed heat-related rules are currently underway in Washington, D.C.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has highlighted the dangers of excessive heat in the workplace, which can lead to heat stroke and even death if not properly managed.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 500 workers died from excessive heat between 2011 and 2022, averaging 40 fatalities per year. Additionally, nearly 34,000 workers suffered heat-related injuries from 2011 to 2020, averaging 3,400 injuries annually.