In April 2026, OSHA updated and reissued its National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Indoor and Outdoor Heat-Related Hazards, replacing the 2022 version. The updated program strengthens how OSHA evaluates heat illness prevention and increases enforcement across industries including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and maritime.
What is OSHA’s Heat NEP?
OSHA’s Heat National Emphasis Program (NEP) is an enforcement initiative that targets workplaces with heat-related hazards. While it is not a formal OSHA standard, it outlines how OSHA applies the General Duty Clause to assess employer responsibility for protecting workers from heat illness.
Key Changes in the 2026 OSHA Heat NEP
- Expanded focus on indoor heat exposure
OSHA now emphasizes risks in indoor environments such as warehouses, kitchens, manufacturing areas, and boiler rooms—not just outdoor job sites. - Broader inspection targeting
Updated data-driven industry lists are used, but any employer may be inspected if heat hazards are observed. - Standardized inspection procedures
New guidance helps inspectors consistently evaluate heat illness prevention programs and determine citations. - Heat priority day enforcement
Inspections are prioritized when the heat index reaches 80°F or higher or during National Weather Service heat advisories.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
OSHA’s updated enforcement approach signals a clear shift: written policies alone are not enough. Employers are expected to demonstrate active, real-time protection of workers.
Key expectations include:
- Comprehensive heat illness prevention programs
Must address both indoor and outdoor work environments - Supervisor accountability
Supervisors must monitor conditions, enforce controls, and take action when needed - Proactive implementation
OSHA will assess what is happening on-site—not just what is written on paper - Clear documentation
Employers should document training, monitoring, work modifications, and incident response efforts
Quick Answer: What triggers an OSHA heat inspection?
An OSHA heat inspection may be triggered by:
- Heat index levels of 80°F or higher
- National Weather Service heat advisories
- Observed workplace heat hazards
- Targeted industry enforcement under the Heat NEP
Be Ready
The 2026 OSHA Heat NEP increases scrutiny on how employers manage heat risks—especially indoors. Employers that proactively update policies, train supervisors, and document actions will be better positioned to reduce compliance risk and protect employees.
Take the Next Step: Strengthen Your Heat Safety Program
OSHA’s updated enforcement expectations make it clear—having a plan isn’t enough. Employers need to demonstrate that heat illness prevention is actively managed, documented, and consistently applied.
Download our Heat Illness Prevention Responsibilities Guide for Employers to better understand:
- Key roles and responsibilities across your organization
- What supervisors are expected to monitor and enforce
- How to document compliance and reduce inspection risk
Are you a public entity? Check out: OSHA Heat NEP 2026: What Public Employers Need to Know
Need Help Navigating OSHA’s Heat NEP?
Whether you’re updating policies, training supervisors, or preparing for potential inspections, OneGroup can help you take a proactive, practical approach to compliance. Contact OneGroup to speak with a risk management specialist.