As temperatures rise, businesses must evaluate their Heat Illness Prevention Programs, especially after OSHA's April 2026 NEP for Heat. Prevention includes monitoring temperatures, providing cool water, allowing acclimatization, and ensuring cooling areas. Young and seasonal workers are especially vulnerable. OSHA now emphasizes in-person heat inspections based on complaints, targeting more industries like delivery and warehousing. Employers must stay compliant to protect workers.

If you have questions or need help creating your program, the Illinois On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program can supply a sample Heat Prevention Program. The Illinois Department of Labor provides free consultation for small and medium-sized businesses, including on-site visits, program creation, training, and even air and noise testing. This free service, mainly funded by a federal grant through the 21(d) On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement, aims to help you develop a safer, more compliant workplace and may even reduce your workers’ compensation costs. For more details, visit https://worksafe.illinois.gov or contact Harry “Hap” Hileman at 217-993-2111 or harry.hileman@illinois.gov.

Note: This program is 90% federally funded, with 10% provided by the State of Illinois.

• https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/CPL_03-00-024_0.pdf

Summary: OSHA's April 2026 expansion of its National Emphasis Program for Heat emphasizes the need for a robust Heat Illness Prevention Program across various industries. Increased in-person inspections will focus on ensuring that employers

Safety Articles