Amidst the prospect of another scorching summer in the US, concerns arise as Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Osha), David Keeling, is believed to impede the implementation of federal labor protections against extreme heat. Keeling’s background as a former executive at UPS and Amazon, companies that have faced heat-related citations from Osha, raises apprehensions about his stance on heat protections. Despite Osha’s recent efforts to establish a federal heat standard aimed at safeguarding 36 million workers with measures like access to water, shade, breaks, and training, the influence of corporations in diluting these regulations is palpable.

The track record of UPS and Amazon in heat-related incidents, including worker hospitalizations and deaths, further underscores the necessity of stringent heat protections in workplaces. While both companies defend their heat policies and emphasize safety measures, critics question the adequacy of these measures in preventing heat-related tragedies. The potential implications of Keeling’s leadership on Osha’s approach to heat protections are of significant concern to safety advocates and workers, especially in light of the mounting pressures from corporate interests.

The urgency of a federal heat standard is underscored by the Department of Labor’s estimation of over 400 heat-related worker deaths between 2011 and 2021, a figure believed to be significantly underreported. With the fate of the heat standard resting on Osha’s deliberations, the looming specter of regulatory rollbacks and corporate lobbying poses a threat to ensuring comprehensive protections for workers against the hazards of extreme heat. As Keeling’s confirmation hearing awaits scheduling, the scrutiny on his potential biases towards UPS and Amazon adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing debate on prioritizing worker safety in the face of rising temperatures and workplace risks.