April 22, 2026
OSHA heat program updates, silica enforcement delays and more
To help you stay ahead of the curve, The Safety Pulse provides a monthly recap of safety-related news. Each edition brings you the latest trends, resources, regulation updates and more, all in one place. We’re here to help you stay informed, compliant and safe.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA updates heat National Emphasis Program (NEP)
OSHA has issued an updated National Emphasis Program for outdoor and indoor heat-related hazards, effective immediately through 2031. The program targets 55 high-hazard industries, including general freight trucking and electric power generation. Inspectors can now conduct random heat inspections on any day the National Weather Service issues a heat warning or advisory.
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
Silica rule enforcement paused indefinitely
MSHA has announced an indefinite delay for metal and nonmetal mine operators to comply with the final rule on respirable crystalline silica exposure. This delay follows ongoing litigation from industry groups. Until the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals makes a final decision, the new safety rules will not be enforced, and mine operators should continue to follow the older safety standards that are already in place.
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
New risk assessment and management standards published
ASSP has published the first U.S.-based standard specifically for risk management and assessment. The new standard, ANSI/ASSP Z310.1-2026, Risk Management – Guidelines for Assessing and Managing Risks, provides a structured framework for organizations to identify, assess and manage workplace risks beyond simple compliance. It builds on global standards with practical and simplified guidance.
The National Safety Council (NSC)
Study finds significant musculoskeletal disorder reduction via safety technology
A new NSC study reports that over 80% of employees using emerging injury prevention technologies (such as wearable sensors and AI-driven ergonomics) reported a reduction in musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms This highlights an opportunity for employers to reduce workers’ compensation claims related to ergonomic injuries.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH calls for award nominations
NIOSH is seeking nominations for its 2026 Prevention through Design (PtD) Award. The award recognizes organizations that eliminate hazards during the design phase of a project rather than relying on personal protective equipment (PPE) or administrative controls later. This recognition is given to individuals, teams or organizations that have successfully "designed out" workplace hazards. The deadline for nominations is June 1, 2026, and the award will be presented in September 2026.