OSHA Heat Illness Prevention Campaign
May 1 – September 30, 2026
OSHA's annual campaign reminding employers about heat safety. Water, rest, shade — the three key protections for outdoor workers.
Who must comply
Any employer with workers exposed to heat — outdoors (construction, agriculture, landscaping, delivery) or in hot indoor settings (kitchens, warehouses, foundries). OSHA enforces heat hazards under the General Duty Clause and is developing a dedicated heat standard.
Background
OSHA launched its national Heat Illness Prevention Campaign in 2011 around the simple message 'Water. Rest. Shade.' The agency has since announced a National Emphasis Program on heat and is working toward a federal heat-injury standard.
How to make the most of it
- Provide cool drinking water and remind workers to drink before they're thirsty.
- Schedule rest breaks in shade or air conditioning, and add more as the heat index climbs.
- Acclimatize new and returning workers gradually over their first week.
- Train supervisors to spot heat-illness symptoms and know the emergency response.
Add to your calendar
Reviewed Saturday, June 13, 2026. Dates can change and exceptions apply — confirm with the official source. Not legal advice.