Amidst the growing threat of heat-related illnesses caused by rising temperatures and anti-worker political actions, California is pushing to establish an indoor heat standard to protect workers, particularly in high-risk industries such as warehousing.
Despite approval by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board, a proposed heat standard, which mandates measures like air conditioning and adjusted work schedules when indoor temperatures surpass certain thresholds, faces resistance from the California Department of Finance.
Meanwhile, in Florida, Republican legislators have passed a law preventing local governments from setting workplace heat standards, prioritising business interests over worker safety.
Last summer, Miami endured a record 46 days with a heat index exceeding 100 degrees.
Despite calls from 88 environmental, faith, and progressive groups urging Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to veto the legislation, last week DeSantis signed off on the legislation.
This move mirrors similar actions in Texas, where a 'Death Star' bill prohibits local jurisdictions from enacting ordinances to protect workers from heat-related illnesses and deaths, including requirements for water and rest breaks.
It's a contest between Texas and Florida to see which state poses the greatest risk to workers, with Florida currently leading the charge.
Source: Confined Space, 16 April