A critical discussion on preventing heat illness among outdoor workers took center stage at the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development meeting on June 18, 2025. Dr. Roger Luckman, a professor emeritus at UMass Chan Medical School, testified in support of Senate Bill 1367 and House Bill 2172, which aim to protect public sector outdoor workers from the dangers of extreme heat.

Dr. Luckman highlighted the growing concern of heat-related illnesses as climate change intensifies. He emphasized that outdoor work, especially under physically demanding conditions in direct sunlight and high humidity, poses significant health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. He noted that these conditions can also impair cognitive function and coordination, leading to increased accidents and injuries.

The alarming statistics presented by Dr. Luckman suggest that up to 170,000 cases of occupational heat-related illnesses and over 8,600 heat-related deaths could occur annually in the United States. While these figures are estimates, they underscore the urgency of addressing this public health issue.

The proposed legislation seeks to establish educational materials and voluntary guidelines for heat illness prevention, developed in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration to create standards for both public and private sector workers.

As climate change continues to impact working conditions, the passage of these bills could be a significant step toward safeguarding the health and safety of outdoor workers in Massachusetts. The committee's discussions signal a growing recognition of the need for proactive measures to combat the risks associated with extreme heat in the workplace.