In light of the escalating temperatures across large sections of the United States, employer obligations regarding workplace safety become a matter of urgent importance. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers striking figures on the health risks related to these climatic conditions. Since 2011, over 400 workers in the US have lost their lives due to environmental heat exposure, while countless more have encountered medical issues directly linked to occupational heat exposure. This situation is particularly acute in industries with a higher propensity for heat-related illnesses.
The rising episodic heat waves are more than just a discomfort for employees working under such conditions; they have become a potential safety and health hazard. Heat stress from extreme heat and humidity substantially increases the risk of workers developing illnesses like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and in severe cases, heat stroke. These conditions can lead to constant fatigue, dizziness, and loss of consciousness, interrupting work processes and eventually posing a lethal threat.
Despite these evident risks, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not currently have a particular standard that covers working in hot environments. Nevertheless, under the General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act of 1970, employers are required to provide working environments “free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.”
Companies in sectors prone to heat-related illness should take this as a call to action. Adequate measures ought to be put in place to prevent occupational heat exposure. These may include frequent rest breaks in cool areas, access to cool drinking water, proper employee education around heat illness symptoms, and resulting treatment measures. In addition, it could be crucial to implement an acclimatization program to get new workers or those returning from extended leave accustomed to hot environments gradually.
Given the temperature trend, the importance of enforcing and maintaining these safety measures cannot be overstated. It is essential for employers to consider these guidelines and become proactive in safeguarding their workers against the potential perils associated with heat exposure. To reference the detailed considerations and obligations, see the full article published by K&L Gates LLP.