When its too hot to work

Published: July 29, 2024, 10:09 p.m.

This month, Earth hit its hottest days recorded in history. But even on the warmest days, millions of workers in the U.S. labor in heat that is increasingly hazardous to their health.

This month, the Biden administration proposed a rule that, for the first time, would protect such workers, whether their jobs are indoors or outdoors. The proposal sets out two heat index triggers that would apply nationally and require employers to offer drinking water, among other safeguards.

Yet some employers, in areas such as agriculture, construction and tourism, are resisting the changes, arguing that they would make their sectors less competitive.

Today on \u201cPost Reports,\u201d Elahe Izadi speaks with climate change reporter Anna Phillips about the federal government\u2019s efforts to protect workers.

Today\u2019s show was produced by Trinity Webster-Bass, with support from Elana Gordon. It was edited by Monica Campbell and mixed by Sean Carter. 

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