OSHA recently updated its National Emphasis Program (NEP) on outdoor and indoor heat-related hazards, reinforcing that heat illness prevention remains a top enforcement priority.

While a final federal heat standard is still under review, this update provides a clear signal of how OSHA is approaching heat hazards right now and what employers should expect moving forward.

A more targeted enforcement approach

The revised NEP, effective April 10, 2026, focuses inspections and outreach on industries where heat-related risks are most likely to occur. It applies across general industry, construction, maritime and agriculture and will remain in place for five years.

Key updates include:

• Targeting high-risk industries using recent injury and illness data
• Conducting inspections during heat advisories or warnings
• Expanding inspections when heat hazards are observed during other site visits
• Adding clearer guidance for evaluating employer programs and issuing citations

OSHA continues to combine enforcement with outreach and compliance assistance, emphasizing prevention alongside inspection activity.

What OSHA expects to see

The updated NEP reinforces core elements OSHA looks for when evaluating heat illness prevention programs, including:

• Access to cool drinking water
• Rest breaks and shaded or climate-controlled areas
• Acclimatization for new and returning workers
• Training on recognizing symptoms and emergency response
• Ongoing monitoring of workers for heat stress

These expectations are not new, but the revised program provides more structure around how OSHA evaluates them during inspections.

No final rule yet, but expectations are clear

OSHA’s proposed heat rule remains under review. In the meantime, enforcement continues under the General Duty Clause, which requires employers to address recognized hazards using feasible and effective controls.

The updated NEP makes it clear that OSHA will continue to prioritize heat-related inspections, particularly in higher-risk industries and during heat events.

Where ANSI/ASSP A10.50 fits

Many safety professionals are asking how ANSI/ASSP A10.50 fits into this updated enforcement landscape.

While A10.50 is not a regulatory requirement, it provides a structured framework for managing heat stress in construction and demolition operations. Many of its core elements align with what OSHA is looking for under the NEP, including acclimatization, training, monitoring and program development.

Following A10.50 can help employers demonstrate that they have taken practical, proactive steps to address heat hazards. That can be especially important when OSHA evaluates whether an employer has implemented feasible means of abatement under the General Duty Clause.

In several areas, the standard offers additional detail that can help organizations strengthen their approach.

What employers should do now

With the updated NEP in place, employers should take time to review their current heat illness prevention efforts. Consider:

• Evaluating programs against OSHA’s updated enforcement focus
• Ensuring basic protections like water, rest, shade and training are consistently applied
• Preparing for increased inspection activity during heat advisories
• Using established frameworks, such as A10.50, to strengthen program structure

A continued focus on heat safety

OSHA’s latest update reinforces that heat illness prevention remains a priority, even as the agency continues working through the rulemaking process.

For safety professionals, this is a good time to take a fresh look at existing programs and make adjustments where needed. Strengthening these efforts now can help reduce risk and better position organizations ahead of future regulatory changes.