Lawmakers on Friday read through a proposed bill that would require employers to protect workers exposed to extreme hot and cold temperatures.
S.B. 2900, sent to the Senate Labor Committee, would apply to employers in industries where employees are regularly exposed to extreme hot or cold working environments in indoor and outdoor settings, “including, but not limited to, agriculture, construction, landscaping, warehouse, manufacturing, mail and package delivery, utilities, oil and gas operations, airport service workers, and food service workers.”
The proposal calls for employers to create and adhere to a written plan addressing such issues as acclimatization, rest periods, hydration, medical monitoring, engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and emergency response.
The measure also includes training requirements and anti-retaliation rules for employees who report unsafe working conditions related to heat or cold.