Six AGs Called on OSHA for Federal Regulations to Protect Workers in Extreme Heat

JANUARY 26, 2022

New York Attorney General Letitia James led a coalition of six attorneys general in sending comments to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) asking the agency to create federal protections against extreme heat-related occupational hazards impacting health. Citing the effect of extreme heat on health as well as the disproportionate impact of climate related illness and death in low-income communities, communities of color, and Tribal and Indigenous communities, the AGs urged OSHA to set specific heat exposure thresholds. The letter also recommended that employers be required to provide preventive measures to mitigate heat-related health issues and record and report injuries and illnesses to OSHA, and suggested that OSHA improve its workplace inspection program.