New Bill Addresses Work-Related Heat Exposure in California

With summer in full swing, everyone’s thoughts are turning to the dangers of heat exposure and heat stroke, legislators included. In fact, California Governor, Jerry Brown, just signed a bill that addresses heat exposure in the workplace. Unfortunately, the new rules are still a bit obscure, and that leaves both employers and employees wondering where we go from here. The following information explains what you might expect from the new bill, such as protections for you in the workplace. It also provides details on where to find assistance if you have a California work injury case.

California’s new bill, SB 1167, grew out of a 2011 work injury case in which a California worker was hospitalized for three days. He had been exposed to extreme conditions on the job while cleaning out a shipping container. Legislatures hope that the new law will reduce the risk of dangerous injuries in the future. It includes provisions that protect things like water breaks, cool down breaks, clothing requirements, and employee training in excessively warm conditions - both inside and out.

If the bill is passed, California will become the second state in the country to address heat-related working conditions in their laws. The other state, Minnesota, released guidelines back in 2014. A statement, released back in December, explains that their concern was over the extreme differences that employees experience between winter and summer temperatures.

Heat stroke and other heat-related conditions can ultimately result in serious injuries that range from dehydration and fatigue to death. Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and facilities with boilers or incinerators may already have some provisions in place to protect their employees, but they may fall short. Construction work and other outdoor jobs also have certain rules and regulations to which they must comply, but these industries also have some of the highest injury rates in the country, which suggests they may also lack sufficient protections for their employees.

Employers will have an even greater obligation to protect their employees from heat stroke under this new bill. Intentionally ignoring the rules and regulations, or otherwise failing to provide protections may also constitute negligence under state law. Should that be the case, the employee may be entitled to compensation that extends beyond workers’ compensation. Of course, each situation is unique, so employees are encouraged to seek experienced legal assistance if they suspect negligence may have played a role in their injuries.

If you or someone you love has been injured on the job, contact Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP for assistance. Our experienced San Jose work injury lawyers understand the complex nuances of the law, and we will fight to ensure you get the most compensation possible. Schedule a free consultation to get started. Call our offices at (408) 289-1417 today.

• Turning up the heat on workplace safety rules