Certain states, such as California, Colorado, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, have passed workplace safety laws to protect workers from high temperatures. However, states like Florida have chosen not to implement or even prohibit such legislation. Regardless of state laws, it is important to recognize that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) still has the authority to review high temperatures as a workplace safety issue.
A recent case in Florida underscores the critical role of OSHA. A 41-year-old worker died from a heat-related illness while picking oranges in 92-degree weather. OSHA cited the employer for serious violations, including exposing workers to hazards associated with high ambient heat on three separate days and failing to provide first-aid training to employees working in an area without access to an infirmary, clinic, or hospital. Additionally, the employer was cited for not reporting a work-related hospitalization within 24 hours and the fatality within 8 hours, as required by law.
Employers, regardless of state-specific laws, must adhere to OSHA guidelines to ensure worker safety in high temperatures. For more information on OSHA's heat illness prevention guidelines, visit OSHA's official website.
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References:
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA
