OSHA’s 2025 Heat Illness Rule: A No-Nonsense Guide for Road Crews

Hot asphalt, heavy gear, and long hours make road work brutal in the summer. OSHA’s new Heat Illness Prevention Rule is coming to protect your crew, with a big public hearing set for June 16, 2025. This will be the first nationwide rule to tackle heat risks for workers on highways, in warehouses, and beyond. Here’s what you need to know to keep your team safe and stay ahead of the game.

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What’s OSHA Planning?

OSHA’s proposed rule lays out clear steps to prevent heat-related illnesses. Here’s the rundown:

• Heat Triggers: Action starts at 80°F (plan ahead) and ramps up at 90°F (serious precautions).
• Scheduled Breaks: Regular cool-down times based on heat and workload.
• Water & Shade: Cold drinking water and shaded spots or cooling areas must be nearby.
• Easing In: New or returning workers get lighter tasks to build heat tolerance.
• Health Checks: Monitor for heat stress, log incidents, and train for emergencies.
• Paper Trail: Keep records of training, heat checks, and fixes for two years.

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Key Dates to Watch

OSHA’s been working on this for years. Here’s the timeline:

1. Oct 27, 2021 – Rulemaking process kicks off.
2. Aug 30, 2024 – Proposed rule published, with public comments open.
3. Nov 29, 2024 – OSHA confirms a virtual public hearing.
4. Apr 16, 2025 – Hearing details and sign-up deadline announced.
5. June 16 – July 2, 2025 – Virtual hearing shapes the final rule.
6. Late 2026–2027 – Final rule likely rolls out (sooner if heat waves push urgency).

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Why Road Crews Need to Act Now

Road work is a heat magnet—think high-vis vests, steaming asphalt, and non-stop physical labor. Since 2011, heat has killed over 436 U.S. workers, and road construction ranks in OSHA’s top five for heat violations. With temperatures rising, this rule will hit contractors hard, so prep now to avoid fines and keep your crew safe.

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9 Steps to Stay Ahead of the Heat

Don’t wait for the rule to drop. Here’s a practical checklist to get your crew ready:

1. Write a Heat Plan: Draft a plan with weather triggers and crew rotations. Use OSHA’s template as a guide.
2. Gear Up with Cooling PPE: Outfit your team with cooling vests, moisture-wicking hi-vis shirts, and ventilated construction helmets to beat the heat.
3. Set Up Water Stations: Place 5-gallon water coolers every 300 feet and keep ice stocked.
4. Provide Shade: Use pop-up tents or work-zone canopy tents for instant relief.
5. Monitor Heat Levels: Get handheld heat-index monitors or apps to know when to call breaks.
6. Train Your Team: Teach foremen to spot heat stress signs (cramps, dizziness) and run monthly emergency drills.
7. Keep Records: Log temperatures, breaks, and training to show you’re following the rules.
8. Check Subcontractors: Make sure they follow the same heat safety standards with contract clauses and site checks.
9. Join the Conversation: Watch the June hearing live, share your input, and team up with industry groups to push for fair rules.

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What’s Coming at the June 2025 Hearing?

The virtual hearing (June 16–July 2) will be a big deal. Expect debates on:

• Heat Thresholds: Some want a single 95°F trigger; others push for 80°F with workload tweaks.
• Break Schedules: Can you fit 15-minute breaks into non-stop paving jobs?
• Costs & Timing: State DOTs may ask for more time to comply during busy seasons.

Stream it live on OSHA’s rulemaking page—no registration needed.

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The Bottom Line for Contractors and Work-Zone Managers

Heat safety isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about keeping your crew healthy and your projects on track. The days of “tough it out” are over. By investing in cooling gear, water stations, and a solid plan now, you’ll bid smarter, avoid shutdowns, and show your team you’ve got their backs when it’s scorching.  

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only, not legal advice. Always check OSHA regulations, state laws, and project specs before setting up your heat safety plan.