Map Reveals the Patchwork of U.S. Heat Protections for Workers
Summary
Across the United States, several states have set their own rules to protect workers from heat-related dangers, but there is no federal heat safety standard yet. Heat is causing more worker deaths every year, especially in outdoor jobs like construction and farming, making heat protections increasingly important.Key Facts
- Heat exposure killed 36 U.S. workers in 2021, 43 in 2022, 55 in 2023, and 48 in 2024 so far.
- The U.S. does not have a federal law requiring heat safety protections for workers.
- Only seven states have enforceable heat safety rules: California, Colorado, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.
- California’s strictest standard (effective July 2024) requires shade, water, breaks, and training when temperatures exceed 80°F outdoors or 82°F indoors.
- Colorado has rules for farm workers at 80°F and will implement broader heat protections for all workers starting August 12, 2024.
- Maryland’s standard applies at 80°F and above, with increasing protection steps at 90°F, 100°F, and more.
- Nevada uses a risk-assessment approach instead of fixed temperature triggers for many rules.
- Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington have heat standards with varying temperature limits and requirements for rest and shade.
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