OSHA Outdoor and Indoor Heat Illness Prevention Program
July 28, 2026 11:56 AM

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Student Employees,  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has instituted a National Emphasis Program for Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards, which establishes requirements to protect workers in indoor or outdoor environments where the temperature or heat index meets or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

In keeping with the requirements from OSHA, best practices among peers, and the duty to ensure the welfare of our employees, the university is fully committed to meeting all workplace safety regulations. As temperatures rise, we need all employees to help keep others on campus safe by learning about heat-related risks.

Safety & Compliance has developed the Heat Illness Prevention Program and a Quick Start Guide to help the university community better understand and prepare for heat-related hazards. The items provide key information on responsibilities and steps to maximize employee safety. All supervisors are responsible for implementing this program, while faculty and staff are expected to familiarize themselves with the university's heat safety requirements. 

• Unit leadership and supervisors: You play a vital role in implementing safety practices within your units. Please review the university's Heat Illness Prevention Program and its requirements to ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect employees from heat-related hazards associated with their work.
  
  
• All employees: You should anticipate additional discussions and communication with leadership concerning how they plan to address heat safety requirements and the changes employees may be expected to make. You may also take the opportunity to view the information.

For questions or additional information, please contact Safety & Compliance, Occupational Safety & Health.

As always, we thank you for being an active participant in the safety of our entire university community and in looking out for one another. 

Sincerely, 

Aimee Heeter 
Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration 

Morgan B. White
Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Facilities & Services

Jeremy Neighbors
Director of Safety & Compliance, Facilities & Services