Take Action: Protect workers from extreme heat! October 22, 2024

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2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record after heat waves scorched much of the country over the summer. Heat is now the leading cause of weather-related deaths with over 2,000 lives lost to heat in 2023 and this is likely a significant underestimate.

While extreme heat impacts us all, it does not do so equally. Outdoor workers, kitchen and food service workers, and others exposed to consistent heat are at higher risk of heat-related injury and death. This is an issue of environmental and health justice, as people of color are more likely to work jobs with consistent exposure to heat.

OSHA has recently proposed a rule to protect approximately 36 million workers from extreme heat and its negative health impacts. This proposal is long overdue and should be finalized in its strongest form as soon as possible to protect our communities.

The Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings rule will give workers adequate rest, water, shade, and air conditioning. Employers will be responsible for establishing plans to keep workers safe and maintain open lines of communication regarding the threat of extreme heat.

This policy puts health first and will undoubtedly save lives. If you’re a health professional, show your support for the rule and submit your comment to OSHA today! The deadline to comment is December 30, 2024.