Worker Heat Protection Rule Needs Flexibility, OSHA Panel Says

A federal rule protecting workers from heat stress will need to offer employers flexibility in meeting mandates, according an OSHA advisory group review of options for the standard.

The report by the Small Business Advocacy Review Panel found numerous provisions where the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration could simplify and encourage compliance by not setting detailed, specific requirements.

OSHA’s standard should “allow employers to tailor their heat injury and illness prevention program to their setting and situations, including the local climate and the type of work being performed,” the panel said.

Worker advocates have pressed for federal heat stress ...