Labor & Employment (Workplace Safety)

Bill S 153, the "Extreme Temperature Worker Protection Act," proposes to protect Vermont employees from occupational injuries and illnesses due to extreme hot and cold temperatures. It requires employers to develop and implement a written prevention plan that includes monitoring temperatures, providing education, and outlining emergency procedures. When the wet bulb globe temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must provide access to cool drinking water and shaded rest areas for employees. The bill applies to most employers and employees, with specific exemptions for certain work activities or temperature-controlled environments.

H.348, the Extreme Temperature Worker Protection Act, requires employers to create workplace plans addressing hazards from extreme heat or cold. It directly affects workers in outdoor or uncontrolled environments, such as construction, agriculture, and landscaping, who face risks of heatstroke or hypothermia. The key provision mandates employers to evaluate temperature risks and implement controls like hydration breaks, rest periods, or shelter access. The bill aims to prevent occupational illnesses, injuries, and fatalities caused by temperature extremes.