Extreme heat is common in Texas, especially during the summer. For people who work outside or in hot buildings, it can be dangerous.
But are employers in Lubbock breaking the law when they don’t protect workers during 95-degree days? The answer depends on state laws, federal rulings, and whether your job is public or private.
“As temperatures rise, workers in Texas face greater risks—but the laws meant to protect them are unclear.”
In this post we will cover:
- Texas Heat Protection Laws
- Federal OSHA Rules
- The Dangers of working in high temperatures
- Texas Legal Options After a Heat Related Work Injury
Heat Protection Laws in Texas Are Unclear
Texas reaches dangerous temperatures often. As global temperatures continue to rise, risks for workers increase—especially in construction, delivery, agriculture, and warehouse jobs.
Some states have created special rules to protect workers from heat, but Texas laws are unclear and often change.
In 2023, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 2127, known as the “Death Star Act”. It removed local heat safety rules, making it harder for cities to protect workers. A lower court ruled this act unconstitutional, but the case is still being appealed.
The Texas Department of Insurance offers a Heat Stress Safety Training Program for Texas employers to help implement in-house education for their workers, supervisors, and managers. Although they are not required to do so, private Texas employers who establish company heat relief regulations for workers may be better protected against lawsuits and OSHA (Occupational Health & Safety Administration) violations.
What Federal OSHA Rules Say
In 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), which includes OSHA, began working on new nationwide rules for heat safety. Unfortunately, it may take years to finalize and implement new rules, especially because the DOL and OSHA have suffered recent budget and staffing cuts. This has led to protests across the country in mid-2025.
Right now, OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards gives guidance when the heat index reaches 80°F or higher. This program will stay in place until April 8, 2026. Despite current federal recommendations, states do not have to create individual programs, and Texas has not passed laws requiring employers to follow these guidelines.
Currently, only private employers must follow OSHA rules regarding heat illness prevention, providing cool water and shade, and allowing employees to take rest breaks. Government agencies in Texas do not have to comply with heat safety rules under House Bill 2127.
“In Texas, government workers may have fewer protections from heat than private employees.”
Heat Can Seriously Harm Texas Workers
When it’s hot, your body tries to cool itself by sweating. But high temperatures, humidity, or working in the sun make that harder.
Without enough water or breaks, you can develop serious medical problems. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these may include:
- Heat stroke
- Dehydration
- Muscle cramps
- Heat exhaustion
- Skin rash
- Brain or kidney injury
- Falls or fainting
- Heart attack
You don’t need 100°F weather to get sick. Even at lower temperatures, sun and humidity make it hard to cool down. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, your risk of illness or injury is even higher.
What to Do If You Suffer Heat Injury at Work
If you start feeling sick from heat, tell someone right away. Then go indoors or to a shaded area to lower your body temperature. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks, and get medical care if symptoms don’t improve. After you’ve been injured at work, talk to a Lubbock work injury lawyer, who can help you figure out if your employer broke the law.
Because the law is unclear, a lawyer will review your case carefully. You might qualify for workers’ compensation, which pays medical bills and some lost wages. In some cases, you might also have a personal injury case.
“Heat-related injuries could lead to legal claims, especially if employers ignore safety standards.”
Texas heat-related deaths are increasing. The Texas Tribune reports that these losses are likely undercounted.
As many as 562 people died in 2022 from heat-related causes, with 365 of the deaths directly caused by heat.
Legal Options After a Heat Injury
Texas workers deserve basic protections on the job, including shade, water, and breaks during hot weather. If these are not provided, one of our work injury attorneys will be your powerful legal advocate.
You may have legal options including filing a claim for benefits, filing an OSHA complaint, or even suing an employer or third party who was at fault.
After any work-related heat injury, act quickly. We can help you understand your rights and start a claim. You do not pay anything until your case is successful. Contact Liggett Law Group to get started today.