📢 In this community, we will speak up and show up for workers!
"If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit." —Banksy
People Power United champions progressive values and power to the people. The 2024 election depends on us, and we are attempting to persuade people to vote for Freedom over Fascism. If you wish to support our efforts, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber to our Substack Newsletter.
July marked the 14th consecutive month of record-breaking heat, highlighting the urgent need for workplace safety measures in extreme conditions. Every year, approximately 40 workers die from heat exposure, with farm workers and construction workers facing a disproportionate risk. In a video by More Perfect Union, farm workers in North Carolina describe suffering under hazardous conditions, often in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. These workers are left to secure their water throughout the day, as their employers are not legally required to provide it. Construction workers also face heightened risks, as helmets and goggles trap heat, exacerbating the dangers.
Working in the heat poses grave dangers, including the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and reduced cognitive function, impairing a worker's ability to perform tasks safely. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can also cause long-term health issues, including kidney damage and cardiovascular problems. In addition to the direct health impacts, working in the heat can increase the risk of accidents, as impaired concentration and physical coordination make workers more susceptible to injuries. To mitigate these risks, employers and workers must prioritize safety measures, such as regular breaks, hydration, and protective clothing.
In response to businesses refusing to adjust safety standards, the Biden administration is taking action. The Department of Labor (DOL) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have proposed a new rule, "Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings," to ensure workers have access to breaks, shade, and water. This rule, if implemented, could significantly improve the safety and well-being of our workers. However, the Chamber of Commerce, the construction industry, and other special interests are opposing this rule.
Can you join us in speaking up for workers facing heat dangers in the workplace?
Click here to send a comment to the Department of Labor and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration on the Heat Stand Rule.
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Take Action with Postcards to Voters:
Where to get Postcards: People Power United now offers postcards! Check out our newest design(s) here. Your purchase helps our People Power efforts. You are also welcome to use plain cardstock or order cards from Etsy or Amazon; the postcard designs and where to order them are entirely up to you.
Where to request addresses, instructions, and scripts: You can request addresses, instructions, and scripts here.
Take Action with Letters to Voters:Â
You can write letters to voters by visiting our Swing Left partner, Vote Forward: http://votefwd.org/swingleft. Supplies needed: blank paper, envelopes, Forever stamps, and a printer. Steps needed: sign up, choose the state you are helping, choose the number of letters—5 or 20—download and print letters, address letters and envelopes, and mail.
Everyone deserves to vote and thrive,
Laurie Woodward Garcia (paid with hugs and kisses, not bought by special interests)
People Power United is a group of community members that champions progressive values and power for the people. In this community, we will always speak out against racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism, homophobia, misogyny, sexism, ageism, ableism, sizeism, transphobia, misogynoir, elitism, and bigotry!