Some Want Flexible Heat Standard as Trigger Temps Eyed

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s proposed nationwide heat stress rule is now in its public comment period, and one of the debates may focus on the agency’s proposed initial temperature triggers.

The agency’s proposed trigger points for action are based on the heat index and wet bulb global temperature, but they differ from trigger points proposed or implemented by various states. The federal agency suggested its proposed rule would need to be adopted by most current state plans, as it would increase protections beyond what they have now.

There isn’t a universal heat index temperature degree trigger point that would be equally effective nationwide, urban climatologist Ariane Middel said. This is due to the regional climate, amount of solar radiation, humidity, and an individual’s characteristics, she added. “Even if there were national trigger points, they would have to be adjusted regionally to account for local climate differences, working conditions, and workforce characteristics,” Middel said.

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