Julie Su Acting United States Secretary of Labor | Official Website
The U.S. Department of Labor has released a proposed rule aimed at protecting millions of workers from the health risks associated with extreme heat. If finalized, the rule would safeguard approximately 36 million workers in both indoor and outdoor settings, potentially reducing heat-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.
Heat is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States. Excessive workplace heat can result in heat stroke and even death. While various industries are affected by heat hazards, workers of color are more likely to be employed in jobs with dangerous heat exposure.
"Every worker should come home safe and healthy at the end of the day, which is why the Biden-Harris administration is taking this significant step to protect workers from the dangers posed by extreme heat," said Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su. "As the most pro-worker administration in history, we are committed to ensuring that those doing difficult work in some of our economy’s most critical sectors are valued and kept safe in the workplace."
The proposed rule mandates employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan targeting heat hazards. This includes evaluating heat risks and implementing measures such as providing drinking water, rest breaks, and controlling indoor temperatures when necessary. Additionally, plans must be made to protect new or returning workers who may not be acclimated to high-heat conditions.
"Workers all over the country are passing out, suffering heat stroke and dying from heat exposure from just doing their jobs, and something must be done to protect them," stated Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker. "Today’s proposal is an important next step in the process to receive public input to craft a 'win-win' final rule that protects workers while being practical and workable for employers."
Employers would also need to provide training on recognizing signs of heat-related illnesses and have procedures ready for immediate response if a worker shows symptoms of a heat emergency.
The public will have an opportunity to submit written comments on the rule once it is published in the Federal Register. A public hearing is anticipated following the comment period.
In parallel with this proposed rulemaking, OSHA continues its outreach efforts under existing regulations like 29 U.S.C. § 654(a)(1). The agency's National Emphasis Program – Outdoor and Indoor Heat-Related Hazards has led over 5,000 federal inspections since its launch in 2022.
Special attention is given to agricultural industries employing temporary H-2A nonimmigrant workers who face unique vulnerabilities including language barriers and lack of acclimatization.
More information about submitting comments will be available upon publication of the rule.
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