HARDI Supports Heat Workforce Standards Act to Push Back on OSHA Heat Rule

HARDI recently signed a letter joining a coalition of over 50 organizations in support of the Heat Workforce Standards Act, legislation aimed at preventing OSHA’s proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Standard from moving forward.

The letter, sent to congressional leadership, brings together several industries to push back on the scope and structure of the proposed rule and its potential impact on employers, including HVACR distributors.

What Is OSHA’s Proposed Heat Rule?

As currently written, the proposed OSHA heat rule would impose sweeping, one-size-fits-all requirements across multiple sectors, including distribution, manufacturing, and construction. These mandates would require employers to implement extensive compliance measures, recordkeeping, and supervisory requirements, along with new paid break structures.

For HARDI members, these requirements could significantly increase compliance costs and administrative workload. The rule’s one-size-fits-all approach does not account for regional climate differences or the varied nature of distribution operations.

What Is the Heat Workforce Standards Act?

The Heat Workforce Standards Act would:

• Prevent OSHA from finalizing the current heat standard

• Block future administrations from pursuing similar rulemakings

• Provide greater certainty for employers facing potential new compliance requirements

HARDI and coalition partners emphasized that heat safety is already a priority for employers, and many businesses have existing protocols in place to protect workers. OSHA’s proposed rule goes beyond what is practical or necessary and risks creating more challenges than it solves.

HARDI will continue advocating for balanced regulatory approaches that protect both workers and the ability of members to run their businesses efficiently.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Questions?

If you have questions, please reach out to Alex Ayers.

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