Nevada OSHA Unveils Heat Safety Regulations for Workplaces Following Record Summer Heat
LAS VEGAS — In a significant move prompted by one of the hottest summers on record, Nevada’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced new regulations aimed at protecting workers from heat-related hazards. Effective immediately, businesses in Nevada with more than 10 employees must conduct a job hazard analysis specifically for heat exposure and implement comprehensive safety plans.
Given that Nevada experiences extreme temperatures—over 100°F for 112 days this summer, with 36 days exceeding 110°F—these regulations respond to a pressing need highlighted by an alarming rise in heat-related illnesses. Clark County reported over 400 heat-related fatalities this year, emphasizing the urgency of the new standards.
The regulations, first of their kind in the state, do not impose specific temperature thresholds, as workplace conditions vary significantly across industries. Businesses must assess their individual work environments, whether in kitchens, construction, or landscaping, to identify heat hazards effectively.
Among the requirements, employers must provide access to potable water, scheduled rest breaks for employees showing heat illness symptoms, cooling provisions, and emergency response plans. Additionally, training must be provided on recognizing heat hazards and effective mitigation procedures.
Recognizing that not all workplaces face the same risks, the regulation exempts employees in climate-controlled environments, such as offices or vehicles, though employers must act promptly to restore functionality if cooling systems fail.
Guidance for implementing these regulations will be available within 30 days, followed by a three-month outreach initiative to support compliance. Enforcement is slated to begin in time for next summer, reinforcing the responsibility of employers to safeguard their workers in Nevada’s extreme heat climate.
Source
Photo credit www.ktnv.com
