Trump's War on OSHA Could Spell the End for Biden-Era Heat Protections
Briefly

In July 2024, the Biden administration introduced a significant rule aimed at preventing heat-related illnesses among 36 million workers, mandating that companies monitor heat stress and provide necessary breaks and hydration. The initiative, seen as a crucial step towards federal climate-related labor standards, was celebrated by labor advocates, who highlighted the urgent need for such protections. However, uncertainties loom with the nomination of David Keeling to head OSHA, given his previous ties to companies with safety violations, potentially undermining the implementation of these much-needed regulations.
In July 2024, the Biden administration proposed a rule aimed at protecting 36 million workers from heat-related illnesses, requiring companies to ensure worker safety.
Labor advocates pointed out that federal labor standards addressing extreme heat are long overdue, indicating a significant gap in protective legislation.
Despite the proposal's promise, the nomination of David Keeling, a former executive tied to companies with safety issues, raises doubts about the rule's future.
The White House stressed that the heat rule's purpose was to significantly reduce worker-related deaths and illnesses from excessive heat exposure on the job.
Read at Truthout
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