Millions of workers might be protected from extreme heat under a new federal rule

A Measurement Measure for Workplace Heat-Related Deaths in the United States Currently Under Record-Shattering Heat Waves

The proposed rule comes as the nation continues to experience record-shattering heat waves and extreme weather activity, and as more than 75 million people were under heat alerts on Tuesday.

“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,” Parker said.

Over the last few years heat-related deaths have increased as more extreme weather conditions have led to scientific consensus that climate change is to blame. Between 1992 and 2022, there were 34 heat related workplace deaths, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2022 alone, there were 43 such fatalities.

The heat index hits 90 degrees, which would cause additional protections to kick in. Employers would have to provide a minimum 15-minute rest break every two hours. They need a system for monitoring their workers for signs of heat-related illness.

The road to approval could be easier if President Biden gets a second term in office, but if Trump is elected President, he will stop the rule’s implementation because he wants the federal government to take less oversight of private industries.