Bill Addresses Worker Heat Protection

A bill in Georgia would impose new workplace safety requirements to protect employees from extreme heat. HB 1071 would amend state labor law to require employers by 2027 or 2028, depending on the size of the business, to adopt heat illness prevention programs when conditions are hazardous. The legislation specifies triggers for “extreme heat environments” and sets minimum standards for written plans, water access, shaded rest areas, mandatory breaks and employee training. Employers would be subject to civil penalties of up to $5,000 for violations and could enter into settlement ...