OSHA Updates National Emphasis Program on Heat

April 27, 2026

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently issued an updated National Emphasis Program (NEP) aimed at reducing worker exposure to indoor and outdoor heat-related hazards across a wide range of industries, including demolition. The directive outlines how the agency will focus enforcement on high-risk sectors where heat illness and fatalities are more likely to occur. This most recent update to the program removes the fixed inspection goal and instead focuses on risk-based targeting and impact.

Under the program, OSHA will conduct proactive inspections during periods of elevated temperatures, particularly when the National Weather Service issues heat advisories or warnings. Inspections may also be expanded if heat hazards are identified during unrelated workplace visits.

Compliance officers will assess whether employers have effective heat illness prevention programs in place, including access to drinking water, rest breaks, shade or cooling areas, employee training, and procedures for monitoring heat conditions.

Read OSHA’s enforcement directive.