July 5, 2024

By Lane Kimble

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Despite ARTBA staff directly urging OSHA to avoid creating an overly general and non-flexible rule, the agency Tuesday released a pre-publication version of its new heat safety standards.

The rules require construction employers to provide specific amounts of water, shade, and safety observers when the temperature hits 80 degrees. Additional requirements kick in at 90 degrees.

ARTBA says contractors already focus on employees’ well being, including in high heat, and the requirements don’t necessarily make sense in every state, given the broad environmental differences across the country.

WTBA members also addressed their concerns about the rule during Congressional visits in Washington, D.C. in May.

You can read ARTBA’s recap and fact sheet HERE.

Once published, the public will have 120 days to comment on the rules.