Summers in Georgia seem to get hotter every year, with highs over 95 degrees. When you factor in the heat index, some days feel like temperatures are in the triple digits.
Staying indoors where the air is cool seems to be the only option these days. But for employees who have to endure hot working conditions outside, air conditioning is just a pipe dream.
So when is it too hot to work outside? Are there laws in Georgia that protect workers, or at least give them enough breaks and water? Here's what you need to know.
Are there laws in Georgia to protect workers who work in extreme heat?
In Georgia, there are no state laws that address working in extreme heat, including worker protections and workplace standards. However, there are federal laws and regulations that require employers to have plans for these working conditions.
The rights of workers when working in extreme heat are governed by federal laws and regulations.
Although Georgia does not have laws protecting workers who work in extreme heat, there are several federal regulations that address this issue.
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), employers are required to provide their employees with a workplace that is 'free from known hazards that are causing or have the potential to cause death or serious injury to employees.'” This standard is vague, but it includes extreme heat conditions while on the job.
OSHA's 2016 publication, Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments, lists a number of recommendations for employers to “significantly reduce the risk of adverse health effects to exposed workers,” such as heat-related injury or illness.
Although OSHA makes some recommendations to employers, such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE) when needed and medically monitoring workers, there is still no law that specifically addresses heat stress while working outdoors.
However, there are discussions about a new regulation that would better protect workers.
The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed a rule that would require employers to provide drinking water and rest breaks when the outside temperature reaches 80°F (27°C). And when the temperature reaches 90°F (32°C), employers would be required to provide 15-minute paid breaks every two hours, under employee control.
If you feel that your work environment is unsafe, you can do the following:
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You can report unsafe working conditions to OSHA without fear of reprisal because it is illegal for employers to fire employees for raising safety concerns.
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If you suffer from a heat-related injury or illness, you may be entitled to compensation.
Have any further questions? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
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