6 OSHA Updates That May Affect Your Business

OSHA rules are constantly evolving — and if you’re running a business, staying on top of those changes is critical. The right knowledge can protect your employees, keep you compliant, and help you avoid costly fines.

Here’s a look at six OSHA updates you should have on your radar right now.

1. Heat Injury & Illness Prevention Rule (Proposed)

Extreme heat is more than uncomfortable — it’s dangerous. OSHA is moving toward a nationwide standard requiring employers to:

• Provide water, shade, and cool rest areas

• Offer paid breaks when heat reaches certain thresholds (80 °F/90 °F)

• Implement a Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (HIIPP)

• Train employees to recognize heat-related illness

Although it’s still a proposal at the federal level, several states already enforce their own heat protection rules. Getting ahead of this now can protect workers and reduce your risk later.

2. PPE Fit Requirements in Construction (Now in Effect)

As of January 13, 2025, PPE in construction must properly fit each worker — no more “one size fits all.”

Employers should:

• Stock PPE in multiple sizes

• Train employees on fit checks

• Document compliance for inspections

Poorly fitted PPE can compromise safety. This rule makes it your responsibility to ensure gear is both available and effective.

3. Updated Penalties & Relief for Small Businesses

OSHA penalties increased this year:

• Serious/Other-Than-Serious Violations: up to $16,550

• Willful/Repeated Violations: up to $165,514

There’s some good news too — new reduction programs can lower fines:

• Up to 70% reduction for businesses with 25 or fewer employees

• 15% reduction for promptly fixing hazards

• 20% reduction for businesses with a clean record for the past five years

Quick action and good records now matter more than ever.

4. Narrowing of the General Duty Clause

OSHA’s General Duty Clause — used to cite hazards not covered by specific rules — may soon have a smaller reach. Proposed changes would exclude hazards that are “inherent and inseparable” from certain jobs, such as sports or animal training.

Most industries won’t be affected, but if you operate in a niche field, it’s worth watching this development.

5. Hazard Communication & GHS Alignment

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is being updated to match the UN’s Globally Harmonized System (GHS). Expect potential changes to:

• Chemical labeling requirements

• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) formats

• Hazard classifications

If you work with chemicals, plan to review and update documentation — and retrain employees — when the new rules are finalized.

6. Federal Delays, but State Action Continues

Some federal OSHA rules, including parts of the heat standard, have been delayed. However, state-run OSHA programs in places like California and Washington are still moving forward with stricter requirements.

If your business operates in multiple states, track both federal and state rules to stay compliant everywhere you work.

The Bottom Line

These six updates highlight just how quickly OSHA’s regulatory landscape can shift. Staying compliant means being proactive:

• Keep safety programs current

• Train employees regularly

• Document compliance steps

• Monitor both state and federal updates

OSHA rules are constantly changing. If you need help keeping up with the changes, let us know — SafetyU.com is here to make compliance simple and effective.