An Act establishing protections for workers in extreme temperatures
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to protect workers in Massachusetts from the dangers of extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. It recognizes that exposure to these conditions can lead to serious health risks, including illness and death. The bill mandates employers to implement safety measures such as providing rest breaks, shade, water, and training to mitigate these hazards, aligning with federal workplace safety standards.
Key provisions
- Requires employers to assess environmental temperature risks.
- Mandates the provision of rest breaks in extreme heat.
- Requires employers to offer access to drinking water.
- Requires employers to provide adequate shade or warming measures.
- Requires employers to provide training on temperature-related hazards.
- Establishes an emergency preamble, declaring the need for immediate action.
- Aligns with federal workplace safety regulations.
- Addresses both hot and cold temperature conditions.
Who is affected
- Workers in Massachusetts
- Employers in Massachusetts
- Construction workers
- Outdoor workers
- Warehouse workers
Notable changes
- Establishes specific requirements for employers to protect workers from extreme temperatures.
- Recognizes the vulnerability of new employees to temperature-related hazards.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
11 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development
Cosponsors
Christopher Hendricks
James B. Eldridge
Arguments
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