Planet Suffers Highest Average Temperatures on Record July 19, 2023

In the past few weeks, the world has seen the highest global average temperatures ever recorded. Outdoor employees and those without access to proper cooling and ventilation are at highest risk. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is working on heat safety rules, but they are not yet finalized. This leaves the decisions about access to shade, water or rest breaks to state or local governments and even sometimes the employer. In a 25-year period, more than 70,000 laborers suffered heat stress. Not only is the human cost of extreme heat dangerous, but the healthcare costs of its related illnesses will be staggering. A study from Center for American Progress revealed that healthcare costs will equate to $1 billion each summer as a result of heat-related illness. While this aspect of climate change is in the news, it is the perfect time to submit a letter to the editor (LTE) to your local newspaper. Find tips for writing an LTE here.