Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor Work Setting

I urge you to sponsor legislation in the 2026 session to protect Virginia's outdoor workers from heat-related illness, injury, and death. Rising temperatures, due to climate change, have made outdoor labor—especially for farmworkers, construction crews, and landscapers—dangerous. Federal protections are still in the works, but Virginia can take immediate action to protect these workers. The Need for Action Heat as a growing risk: Climate change is increasing heat waves, placing outdoor workers in serious danger of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Limited protections: Virginia lacks laws addressing heat illness prevention for outdoor workers, leaving them vulnerable to life-threatening conditions. Federal action is slow: While the U.S. Department of Labor is working on heat regulations, they are not yet finalized. Meanwhile, Virginia workers continue to face unnecessary risks. Key Provisions for Legislation Water & Hydration: Employers must provide cool, potable drinking water at all times and ensure it is regularly replenished. Shade & Rest Breaks: Employers should provide shaded areas or cooling zones and allow workers to take breaks when necessary during extreme heat conditions. Mandatory Breaks: Establish required rest periods based on heat index, with additional breaks when heat reaches dangerous levels (e.g., above 90°F). Training & Emergency Protocols: Employers must train workers to recognize heat stress symptoms and ensure emergency response procedures are in place. Enforcement & Remedies: Strong penalties for non-compliance and protections for workers to report unsafe conditions without retaliation. Regular inspections by Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) will ensure enforcement. Why Virginia Must Act Now Protecting lives: With heat-related fatalities on the rise, acting now will prevent needless deaths and suffering. Setting an example: Virginia can lead the way by passing these protections, encouraging other states to follow suit. Public health benefits: Preventing heat-related illness will reduce healthcare costs and improve worker productivity. Proposed Legislative Path We should amend the Virginia Safety and Health Codes Act to require heat-related protections for outdoor workers, including water, shade, breaks, and training. This law should also allow the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program to enforce these measures through inspections and penalties. Additionally, including farmworker protections (e.g., removal of exemptions for minimum wage and overtime) would ensure that all outdoor workers are protected equally. Conclusion Passing this bill would save lives and demonstrate Virginia's leadership in workplace safety. I urge you to sponsor this critical legislation and ensure its swift passage. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like further information. Thank you for your consideration.