The US has proposed new regulations, to protect workers from extreme heat, as climate change intensifies heat waves across the nation.
According to the government, about 35 million workers would be affected by the measures, which apply to those working in environments with a heat index of 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. A senior administration official stated that the purpose of the rule is to significantly reduce worker-related deaths, injuries, and illnesses caused by excessive heat exposure.
According to AFP, workers must be provided with drinking water and access to shaded or air-conditioned break areas when the heat index hits 80 degrees.
The new rule also mandates that if the heat index exceeds 90 degrees, employees would be entitled to a 15-minute break every two hours, and managers must monitor workers for heat-related illness symptoms.