AFSCME’s Saunders: New 2024 Heat Standards Acknowledge Work Realities
The Facts -
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- Climate change is undeniable; the last eight years are the hottest on record.
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- The Biden administration proposes new OSHA heat standards for worker protection.
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- These standards will provide relief and save lives by reflecting 2024 work realities.
New Heat Standards Announced by U.S. Department of Labor
WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders responded to the U.S. Department of Labor's announcement of new heat standards:
“Climate change is undeniable — the last eight years are the hottest on record. Workers experience this the most, with heat-related illnesses and injuries rising alongside record temperatures. The Biden administration is addressing this by proposing new heat standards through OSHA, aligning worker protections with today's environmental challenges. For AFSCME members — whether they’re paving roads, collecting garbage, driving students to school, directing traffic, or maintaining safety in corrections facilities — these safeguards will offer essential relief. This will also provide peace of mind to their families at home.
“These new heat standards, along with the recently introduced Public Service Worker Protection Act, will keep workers safe and reflect the realities of working in 2024. Most importantly, they will save lives.”
Learn more about the OSHA heat standards and the Public Service Worker Protection Act.
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