US workers facing deadly heat borrow from tomato pickers to win key protections
As efforts to protect people from extreme heat stall, organizers are embracing an approach that targets major brands’ reputations“It’s the kind of heat that makes you feel like you’re being dehydrated, like your skin is drying out,” said Lucas Benitez, after harvesting watermelon
The struggle for protections against extreme heat is gaining momentum, particularly among US workers who are often left vulnerable to the dangers of rising temperatures. The approach taken by organizers, targeting major brands' reputations, is a strategic move that has shown success in the past, notably in the campaign for tomato pickers' rights. By highlighting the human cost of inaction, advocates hope to shame companies into taking a more proactive stance on worker safety.
The context of this story is the ongoing debate around climate change and its impacts on the workforce. As temperatures continue to rise, workers in industries such as agriculture, construction, and delivery services are disproportionately affected. The fact that efforts to protect people from extreme heat have stalled suggests a need for alternative approaches, such as the one being taken by organizers. By leveraging public pressure and brand reputation, advocates may be able to secure key protections for workers.
What's next to watch is how major brands respond to the growing pressure to prioritize worker safety in the face of extreme heat. Will companies like those in the food and beverage industry take proactive steps to protect their workers, or will they continue to stall? Additionally, will this approach be effective in securing broader policy changes, such as federal heat standards, or will it remain a niche strategy for specific industries? As the climate crisis deepens, the stakes are high for workers and companies alike.
Originally reported by theguardian.com. GreenNews adds analysis for climate & energy readers.