WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor recently released a proposed rule with the stated goal of protecting millions of workers from the significant health risks of extreme heat.
If finalized, the Labor Department’s proposed rule would help protect approximately 36 million workers in indoor and outdoor work settings, it says, and substantially reduce heat injuries, illnesses, and deaths in the workplace.
“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,” says Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Douglas L. 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.”
The proposed rule would require employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by excessive heat. Among other things, the plan would require employers to evaluate heat risks and — when heat increases risks to workers — implement requirements for drinking water, rest breaks and control of indoor heat. It would also require a plan to protect new or returning workers unaccustomed to working in high-heat conditions.
Employers would also be required to provide training, have procedures to respond if a worker is experiencing signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness, and take immediate action to help a worker experiencing signs and symptoms of a heat emergency.
The public is encouraged to submit written comments on the rule once it is published in the Federal Register, the department said in its release. It also anticipates a public hearing after the close of the written comment period. More information will be available on submitting comments when the rule is published.
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