Senate Health Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-La.), joined by 15 fellow Republican senators, sent a letter urging OSHA not to move forward with the implementation of a proposed heat regulation. OSHA's first-of-its-kind proposed rule, titled “Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings,” was introduced in August 2025, and a final rule is widely expected to be issued in mid-to-late 2026. Although the specific heat standard is not yet mandatory, OSHA continues to enforce heat safety under the General Duty Clause and its National Emphasis Program (NEP), which has been extended through 2026.


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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has moved to hire back employees who were previously laid off, signaling a renewed emphasis on workplace safety and enforcement capacity. These layoffs, which reduced staffing levels across several regions, had strained the agency’s ability to conduct inspections, respond to complaints, and provide timely guidance to employers and workers. Rehiring experienced staff allows OSHA to quickly restore institutional knowledge and operational readiness without the delays associated with onboarding entirely new personnel.


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What happened: A new rule that requires construction employers to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) that fits their workers properly will take effect Jan. 13. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) finalized the rule Dec. 11.

Why it matters: The regulation was created to address problematic sizing options for people who are smaller or larger than standard PPE designs. Employers must ensure that PPE – such as high visibility clothing, hard hats, gloves, safety harnesses, and protective footwear – fits each worker’s body type.

The construction industry supported many aspects of the rule and supports its general intent but raised concerns as part of the broader Construction Industry Safety Coalition (CISC) about lack of clear guidance on how to determine proper fit. The CISC warned that this gives OSHA compliance officers broad discretion without allowing contractors to know in advance if they are meeting the standard’s requirements.

What’s next: Employers need to evaluate their PPE inventory and the needs of their employees to ensure the gear functions properly and does not create additional hazards.

As a long-time highway lobbyist, I used to say Democrats were quick to spend the money but add regulations to the programs while Republicans cut regulations and were difficult to build support for new investment. The Road Builders took a look at what is currently happening. We know investments have gone way up.


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