As temperatures rise, so does the urgency to protect workers from heat-related illnesses. Every year, thousands of employees suffer from heat stress, and dozens lose their lives—over 40% of these fatalities occur in construction alone. Recognizing this growing hazard, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed a groundbreaking standard: Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings (published in the Federal Register, March 2025). This new regulation, comments closed on December 30, 2024, aims to ensure employers across general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture sectors safeguard their teams from hazardous heat.

At ATS ShieldSafe, we’re proud to offer a solution that’s ready to meet this challenge head-on: the ClimateRig™, a mobile cool-down trailer designed to keep workers safe, comfortable, and compliant. Let’s dive into how the ClimateRig aligns with key requirements of OSHA’s proposed rule—and why it’s the ultimate tool for employers looking to stay ahead of the curve.

A Game-Changer for Heat Safety Compliance

OSHA’s proposed standard is a programmatic approach, requiring employers to create a Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (HIIPP) and implement specific measures when heat levels hit defined triggers. Here’s how the ClimateRig steps up to the plate:

• Cooling Rest Areas at the Initial Heat Trigger (Paragraph (e))
  When the heat index hits the initial heat trigger (likely around 80°F), employers must provide access to shaded or air-conditioned rest areas. The ClimateRig delivers with its all-metal, insulated trailer featuring two 15,000 BTU air conditioners. Capable of cooling up to 18 workers at once, it’s a mobile oasis that ensures your team has a safe, comfortable spot to recover from heat exposure—whether they’re on a construction site, farm, or shipyard.
• Scheduled Breaks at the High Heat Trigger (Paragraph (f))
  At the high heat trigger (around 90°F), scheduled rest breaks—like 15 minutes every two hours—become mandatory. The ClimateRig’s full-length benches and 125 sq. ft. of non-skid floor space make it the perfect spot for these breaks. Towable by a half-ton truck, it can be positioned right where your workers need it, minimizing downtime and maximizing safety. Plus, its optional generator upgrade keeps the AC running, no matter the conditions.
• Emergency Response Ready (Paragraph (g))
  Heat emergencies demand quick action. The ClimateRig’s robust cooling capacity can rapidly lower body temperatures for workers showing signs of heat exhaustion or stroke. With 8 optional AC plugs, you can power first aid equipment or charge communication devices, while the trailer’s front emergency exit and rear step ensure easy access and evacuation. It’s built tough with patented CellTech Technology, so it stands up to the harshest summer weather—ready when you need it most.
• A Cornerstone of Your HIIPP (Paragraph (c))
  OSHA requires a written plan to control heat hazards, and the ClimateRig fits right in. Its durable, maintenance-free design—featuring all-metal construction to eliminate rot and mildew—makes it a reliable, long-term solution you can document with confidence. Pair it with water coolers (easily powered by those AC plugs), and you’ve got a comprehensive strategy to keep workers safe.
• No Cost to Workers (Paragraph (j))
  The standard mandates that heat prevention measures be provided at no cost to employees. The ClimateRig’s quality components and low-maintenance build reduce long-term expenses, making it a cost-effective way for employers to offer premium cooling without passing costs onto workers.

Beyond Compliance: Added Value for Your Team

The ClimateRig doesn’t just check boxes—it elevates the worker experience:

• Year-Round Protection: Add the optional 2,000-watt forced air heater for cold-weather comfort.
• Worker Morale: With 8 AC plugs for phone charging, your team stays connected and refreshed.
• Industry Versatility: From construction to agriculture, its mobility and durability make it a fit for any outdoor or indoor-adjacent job site.

OSHA’s data shows heat is the leading weather-related killer in the U.S., with 1,042 worker deaths from 1992–2022 (Section I, Executive Summary). The ClimateRig isn’t just a compliance tool—it’s a lifesaver.

Bridging the Gaps

While the ClimateRig nails many of OSHA’s requirements, a few extras can make it even more seamless:

• Water Access: The standard calls for cool, potable water. Add a water dispenser inside the trailer to cover all bases.
• Heat Monitoring: Employers must track heat conditions (Paragraph (d)). Pair the ClimateRig with a heat index tool (like OSHA’s Heat Safety App) to stay trigger-ready.

We’re exploring add-ons like these to make the ClimateRig a one-stop heat safety solution—stay tuned!

Why Quality Matters

OSHA’s proposal emphasizes feasibility and effectiveness (Sections IX and VIII). The ClimateRig’s 17 patents, anti-corrosion design, and C1D2 configuration (for hazardous environments) prove it’s not just compliant—it’s best-in-class. Quality reduces liability, protects your workforce, and safeguards your bottom line.

Get Ahead of the Heat

With the comment period for OSHA’s proposed rule closing December 30, 2024, now’s the time to prepare. The ClimateRig is your ready-made answer to heat safety compliance—delivering durability, comfort, and peace of mind. Want to learn more? Call our ATS ShieldSafe team at 800.747.9953 to see how the ClimateRig can work for you.

Let’s keep workers safe, together.

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