Senators Call On OSHA to Drop Heat Rule

What’s happening: Sixteen Republican Senators led by Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-La.) are urging OSHA to rescind its proposed heat rule, which would require employers nationwide, in both indoor and outdoor settings, to implement specific protections at two heat thresholds. In their Mach 11 letter, the Senators argued a “one-size-fits-all” approach is inefficient, potentially dangerous, and harmful to jobs and businesses.

Why it matters: Their comments reinforce ARTBA’s concerns about the necessity and feasibility of the rule on transportation construction jobsites. For example, mandated break schedules may not align with time-sensitive activities like asphalt paving or concrete placement. The rule also restricts use of equipment for shade, despite space limitations on many roadside jobsites where trucks or cabs are commonly used. ARTBA has instead advocated for a flexible, performance-based standard that allows proven safety practices to continue.

What’s next: OSHA has not announced next steps or a timeline. Options include revising and re-proposing the rule, rescinding it, or finalizing it as written. Contact Brad Sant or Prianka Sharma for more information.