OSHA Extends Post-Hearing Comment Period for Proposed Heat Rule

OSHA has extended by 30 days the post-hearing comment period for its possible rule to prevent heat-related injury and illness in outdoor and indoor work settings, according to a Federal Register notice published today. The agency held an informal public hearing on its proposed heat rule from June 16 through July 2, 2025. The extension announced today allows those who submitted notices of intention to appear during the hearing to file evidence and data as well as provide final written briefs and responses to questions OSHA asked during the hearing until Oct. 30.

OSHA has published two resources intended to help individuals prepare their comments: a list of questions the agency posed to participants at the informal hearing (PDF) and a shorter list of common questions that OSHA asked hearing participants (PDF). Recordings and transcripts from the hearing are also available via OSHA’s website.

Provisions of OSHA’s heat rule, as proposed, would require affected employers to develop and implement site-specific heat injury and illness prevention plans as well as plans to acclimatize new or returning workers who may be unaccustomed to working in high-heat conditions. The proposed rule also addresses requirements for drinking water, rest breaks, and control of indoor heat.

More information about OSHA’s heat rulemaking and its current status can be found on the agency’s website.