Dallas, Texas – Eva Marroquin, a 51-year-old mother of five, still feels the trauma from losing a friend to heat exposure in 2012 while working construction in Austin. The lack of protections for workers facing extreme temperatures in the US has left advocates like Marroquin pushing for change.
A Fight Between State and Local Authority
Recent laws in Florida and Texas have prevented local governments from establishing heat safety regulations for workers. This has sparked a debate about the balance between business interests and worker safety.
Petitioning the Federal Government
With federal agencies like OSHA and FEMA being petitioned to address the issue, there is hope for a nationwide standard to protect workers from heat-related risks.
‘Not Seen as Human’
Concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable workers, especially immigrant laborers, who face high risks of heat exposure due to lack of protections, have been raised.
‘The Monster is Here’
Congressman Greg Casar emphasizes the urgent need for action on climate change and workplace protections, highlighting the immediate dangers faced by workers.
As advocates continue their fight, the hope is for a federal rule to provide comprehensive safeguards for workers across industries, ensuring their safety and well-being.
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