Full-Service Law Firm solving complex challenges through bold thinking, precise execution, and shared purpose.

Full Service Law Firm | Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Specializing in the Intersection of Business &amp; Government

Meet our team of trusted advisors, strategic thinkers, and community builders dedicated to client success.

Learn about our full-service legal and business solutions, designed to address complex challenges for leading organizations across industries.

Access thought leadership, news, and resources to stay informed about the latest trends, legal developments, and industry innovations.

Discover how partnership, bold thinking, and precise execution drive results for clients nationwide.

Explore how our national reach and local expertise support clients across the United States and beyond.

Grow at a firm designed to bring out your best.

Extreme heat conditions are impacting both Wisconsin and Illinois this week, with widespread Extreme Heat Warnings and elevated heat risk levels. Employers should anticipate heightened enforcement under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Heat National Emphasis Program (NEP).  While the rest of the country has already experienced extreme heat, employees in Wisconsin and Illinois are not acclimated to these temperatures, especially newer workers who have not yet learned how to work efficiently, how much water to drink, how to dress, and are trying to prove themselves by working hard.  They may fail to pace themselves. Extra care is necessary from leadership in terms of giving direction about what to do, and what not to do this week.   

core/paragraph

core/heading

Extreme Heat Warnings in many areas including Madison, Milwaukee, and Waukesha

core/list-item

Heat index values generally ranging from 95–110°F+

core/list

Widespread dangerous heat conditions including Chicago and downstate regions

Heat index values frequently exceeding 100°F

Heat Risk Levels (National Weather Service HeatRisk)

Red (Major Risk): Impacts most workers without cooling, hydration, or protective controls

Magenta (Extreme Risk): Dangerous, prolonged heat with limited overnight relief affecting all workers without controls

What OSHA Expects Right Now (Even Before Final Rule)

A proposed OSHA Heat Standard is being finalized, but is not yet on the books. However, OSHA continues to enforce heat hazards under the General Duty Clause. Inspection expectations are already aligned with the forthcoming federal heat standard:

Documented heat illness prevention program

Real-time monitoring using heat index or Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) <a href="https://www.osha.gov/otm/section-3-health-hazards/chapter-4#wbgt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSHA Technical Manual (OTM) - Section III: Chapter 4 | Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a> 

Demonstrated use of controls in the field 

Training and defined emergency response procedures 

Gradually increase workload for new and returning workers 

Closely supervise during early exposure periods 

Document schedules and supervisory oversight 

Provide cool, potable drinking water at all times 

Ensure water is staged close to work areas 

Implement scheduled breaks tied to heat conditions 

Increase frequency during peak heat periods 

<strong>4. Shade / Cooling</strong>&nbsp;

Use fans, misters, or cooled trailers where feasible 

Practical Takeaways for Employers (This Week) 

Treat current conditions as high-risk under OSHA enforcement priorities 

Align operations with Water–Rest–Shade–Acclimatization controls 

Expect inspections during Extreme Heat Warnings in both Wisconsin and Illinois 

Train supervisors to intervene proactively, not reactively 

Document all actions as proof of compliance 

Employers in Wisconsin and Illinois are operating in major to extreme heat risk conditions. OSHA expects real-time implementation and documentation of protective measures. Failure to act increases enforcement and litigation risk.&nbsp; Penalties can be high and create negative publicity about your organization.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.ehstoday.com/health/article/55130666/how-oshas-new-heat-rule-impacts-employers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How OSHA’s New Heat Rule Impacts Employers | EHS Today</a>&nbsp;

Small tree growing from a mound of soil with a blurred green background.

Soft green blurred background with gentle gradient tones.

OSHA Heat Expectations Intensify Across Wisconsin and Illinois

Related People

Related Capabilities

You may also be interested in these

Key Changes to Milwaukee Metropolitan Builders Association (MBA) Home Construction Contract (2026 Update)

Michael Best Welcomes Three Associate Attorneys in Q2 2026

Five Financial Insights Growing Organizations Should Be Thinking About Right Now