US Labor Department Proposes Heat Safety Standard

The U.S. Department of Labor and OSHA have proposed the first-ever safety standard to protect employees from excessive heat, requiring employers to develop heat action plans, provide water, rest breaks, and shade. This regulation aims to address the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., which include heat strokes and other heat-related illnesses. Despite these federal efforts, states like Nevada currently lack specific regulations, relying instead on general duty clauses to protect workers. The City of Reno construction crews are already adjusting their schedules to mitigate heat risks, starting work earlier and taking more frequent breaks. Labor officials emphasize that employers should not wait for legislation to implement these safety measures. Meanwhile, activists are urging President Biden to declare a climate emergency to further address extreme weather impacts.