Build up to full days in the heat slowly. OSHA advises new workers to work only 20 percent of the normal time in the heat on the first day, then add 20 percent each day until they reach a normal schedule. It matters most at the start: OSHA says almost half of heat-related deaths occur on a worker's first day on the job or a worker's first day back after an extended absence, and over 70 percent occur in the first week.
Checked against official OSHA, NIOSH, CDC and Texas pages on October 16, 2026. This page explains rules and where to get help. It is not legal or medical advice, and it does not replace your employer's safety training.
What OSHA and NIOSH say
- The 20 percent rule. “New workers should work only 20 percent of the normal duration on their first day,” then increase by 20 percent on later days.
- Some people need longer. OSHA notes some workers may need up to 14 days. NIOSH describes acclimatization over 7 to 14 days.
- Reduce duration, not intensity, for acclimatization. OSHA says new workers should do job tasks similar in intensity to their expected work while the duration in heat increases gradually.
- Breaks in the AC are fine. NIOSH says air-conditioned breaks do not undo acclimatization.
- More breaks for new workers. OSHA: “Give new workers more frequent rest breaks.”
In Texas
As of October 17, 2026, Texas has no state-specific occupational heat-exposure standard. OSHA's current list of states with heat standards does not include Texas, and the federal heat standard is still a proposed rule. Federal OSHA covers private-sector employers and workers in Texas. Texas DWC guidance recommends gradual heat acclimatization, cool water and breaks in shade or a cool area. Ask your supervisor how your first week in the heat will be set up.
Free tool: your first five days
Enter how many hours a normal day puts you in the heat. Nothing is saved.
Heat gear you buy yourself
A cooling towel is optional. It does not replace employer controls, cool water, rest or a cool break area. Ask your employer before buying one.
FROGG TOGGS Chilly Pad Instant Cooling Towel, 33 x 13, Hi-Vis Lime Green
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Sources
- OSHA: Protecting new workers from heat
- NIOSH: Heat stress recommendations
- OSHA: Heat exposure
- OSHA: Heat standards
- OSHA: Heat rulemaking status
- Texas Department of Insurance: Protecting workers from heat hazards
- OSHA: State Plans
