Workers Have Died in Extreme Heat as OSHA Has Debated Protections

image via New Scientist

July 4, 2025, 12:00 PM

• •High temperatures contributed to the deaths of at least three workers.
• •OSHA is considering a rule to protect workers from heat.
• •Industry groups are pressuring OSHA to weaken the rule.
• •The Postal Service has been criticized for not doing enough to protect workers from heat.

The June heat dome led to the deaths of at least three workers, highlighting the urgent need for worker heat protections. OSHA is currently deliberating on a proposed rule to mandate rest and water breaks for workers in high temperatures, but faces opposition from industry groups. These groups argue that the proposed protections are unnecessary for workers accustomed to warmer climates. The National Association of Letter Carriers union has criticized the Postal Service for not doing enough to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.

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