~ According to recent data, the impact of excessive heat on workers can be deadly. Every year, thousands of workers fall ill and dozens lose their lives while working in hot or humid conditions. In fact, from 1992 to 2022, a total of 986 workers across all industries in the United States died due to heat exposure. This averages out to about 34 deaths per year. Shockingly, the construction sector accounted for about 34 percent of these occupational heat-related deaths, with a total of 334 fatalities during this time period.

Furthermore, it has been found that Black and Brown workers are disproportionately affected by heat-related deaths. A study conducted in 2019 revealed that Black construction workers were 51% more likely to die from heat exposure compared to their white counterparts. Similarly, Mexican-born workers were found to be 91% more likely to suffer from heat-related fatalities.

In light of these alarming statistics, there is a growing consensus that measures must be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of workers even on the hottest days. On July 2nd, 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a proposed rule aimed at protecting both indoor and outdoor workers from extreme heat. While some states have already taken action in this regard, it is important to note that under OSHA regulations, employers are responsible for providing a safe workplace free from known hazards – including those related to excessive heat.

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The good news is that there are simple steps employers can take to prevent heat illness and injury among their employees. By implementing an altered work schedule or providing access to clean water and breaks in a cool location, workers can get the necessary relief they need from the scorching temperatures. Additionally, allowing for gradual acclimatization to working conditions can help build up tolerance for laboring in the heat – an essential process in combating the high rates of heat-related fatalities within the first few days of work. Employers can also play a crucial role in preventing the harmful consequences of heat stress by training all workers and managers on the signs and symptoms of heat illness and having clear procedures in place to provide aid to workers in crisis.

To ensure comprehensive protection for workers, it is recommended that employers include the following strategies in their Heat Illness Prevention Plan:

- Procedures for providing sufficient water

- Procedures for providing access to shade

- Plans for work-rest cycles to allow for adequate rest and hydration

- High-heat procedures

- Emergency response procedures

- Acclimatization methods and procedures

- Effective communication protocols

- Weather monitoring systems

- Training programs

It is crucial that all workers and supervisors exposed to high temperatures receive proper training, which should cover topics such as the health effects of heat stress, signs and symptoms of heat illness, use of a buddy system for monitoring each other, emergency procedures, personal risk factors, the right to stop work if experiencing symptoms, acclimatization and rest-break schedules, hydration and electrolyte intake, controls to reduce heat stress risk, how to monitor and measure heat stress risk, as well as federal and state requirements.

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In an effort to promote awareness and provide resources for employers looking to keep their workers safe during excessive heat conditions, the Office of Labor Compliance and Worker Protections recently offered free training on Understanding Heat Illness and Protections for Both Indoor and Outdoor Workers. Employers are encouraged to utilize this presentation as a guide for conducting their own heat safety training. Additionally, they can visit boston.gov/heat regularly for updates on the latest strategies for staying cool and access resources available in Boston.

For more information on how employers can ensure the safety of their workers during excessive heat conditions, including creating a Heat Illness Prevention Plan and resources for worker training, they can visit osha.gov/heat. They can also download the National Institute of Environmental Health and Sciences' new tool, "Building Blocks for a Heat Stress Prevention Training Program." By taking proactive measures and implementing proper training and protocols, employers can help prevent heat-related illnesses and fatalities among their workers.

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