Action | NOIRA on Heat Illness Prevention |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 6/9/2021 |
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It is very encouraging to see that Virginia is moving to join three other states to protect our workers from the dangers of extreme heat. The text of the NOIRA very completely outlines the medical conditions, from heat rash to the potentially fatal heat stroke, that can impact the Commonwealth’s workers.
Two California cases illustrate the danger of extreme heat on workers.
Very simple measures from scheduled water breaks, close access to water and shade, and training of both workers and supervisors in recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat illness can protect our workers. Let us take these steps to prevent Virginia from experiencing cases such as those described above.
Bob Kitchen, MD
Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action