Millions of workers could be protected from heat stroke under a new federal rule
A New Rule for Injury Prevention in the U.S. Department of Labor to Protect Workers from Heat-Related Workplace Fatalities
A new rule is being proposed by the U.S Department of Labor that would require employers to have plans in place for injury and illness prevention.
It is an important next step in the process of receiving public feedback and getting a final rule that protects workers while being practical and workable for employers.
Climate change is thought to be a factor in the increase in heat-related deaths in the past few years as the globe grapples with more extreme weather conditions. An average of 34 heat-related workplace deaths were reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There were 43 such fatalities in the course of 12 years.
Additional protections would kick in when the heat index hits 90 degrees. At that point, employers would also have to provide a minimum 15-minute paid rest break every two hours. They would also have to have a system in place for monitoring their workers for signs of heat-related illness or symptoms.
President Biden’s second term in office could prove easier to approve if he wins, but former President Trump may not follow through with the rule because of his intention to cut federal oversight of private industries.
The US Department of Labor is planning to propose a rule that would mandate employers to have plans in place for injury and illness prevention. It would require employers to provide a 15-minute paid rest break every two hours when the heat index hits 90C. Further, employers would also have to monitor their workers for signs of heat-related illness or symptoms.