The non-profit Make the Road Nevada which seeks to elevate the power of working class immigrants is applauding new federal government efforts for national regulations which are being finalized to protect workers facing extreme heat including mandatory water breaks, shaded rest areas, and heat illness prevention.
“The reality for many outdoor workers in Nevada is that they endure intense heat and poor air quality, exacerbating chronic conditions such as cardiovascular and kidney diseases, and diabetes-related illnesses and leading to severe health issues like asthma attacks and heart attacks,” the press release indicated.
“This national action will bring significant relief and security to countless families across Nevada. It means safer working conditions, healthier communities, and a brighter future for our workers,” executive director Leo Murrieta said.
There is no heat-related safety protection for workers in the Silver State, despite recent legislative efforts. Nevada’s OSHA does enforce what is called a “general duty cause,” and a more detailed standard is currently being worked on.
Heat protection laws here and elsewhere often face opposition from construction and development companies as well as from chambers of commerce and business associations, due to what they say is difficult implementation and driving up costs.
Opponents say they intend to challenge the new federal regulations whenever these are finalized and implemented.
Make the Road Nevada Applauds New Federal Heat Protection Efforts for Workers
In this photo, local workers are in the trenches of an ongoing construction project this week with temperatures reaching the upper 90s and forecast for the mid 100s starting Saturday.