Kentucky Officials Urge Employers to Protect Workers From Heat

As summer temperatures rise, KYSAFE reminds commonwealth employers of their legal obligation to prevent heat-related workplace illnesses.

• By Jesse Jacobs
• Jun 29, 2026

State workplace safety officials are warning Kentucky employers to protect their staff from extreme heat as daytime temperatures climb across the commonwealth.

The Kentucky Occupational Safety and Health Training and Education division, known as KYSAFE, issued a reminder that heat is a recognized workplace hazard. According to safety experts, exposure to high temperatures, radiant heat sources, high humidity and intense physical labor can lead to severe occupational illnesses or fatalities. The risk applies to both indoor and outdoor work environments.

To comply with safety standards, officials state that employers must monitor workers and provide adequate water, rest breaks and shaded areas. Safety guidelines also dictate that employers allow workers to gradually acclimate to hot conditions and establish emergency response protocols for heat-related incidents.

Educational resources, including video presentations regarding occupational heat planning and indoor heat stress, are available through government websites. KYSAFE and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration provide online guides to help employers distinguish between the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The state agency continues to offer free training, technical assistance and confidential consulting services to help local businesses maintain safe working environments and avoid regulatory penalties.

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