Greg Casar Urges Louis DeJoy to Protect USPS Workers from Extreme Heat
Urgent Call for Worker Safety
Texas Rep. Greg Casar led more than 70 members of Congress in a joint letter to U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding protection for USPS workers amid a wave of extreme heat. The letter, released Wednesday, urged the finalization of a proposed rule by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that aims to safeguard workers during heat waves.
Heat-Related Risks to USPS Employees
- Risk of heat-related illness and death for USPS workers.
- Urgent call for implementing OSHA’s Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rule.
- The need for proper training and resources regarding heat illness prevention.
“The United States Postal Service (Postal Service) are at imminent risk of heat-related illness and death,” the letter states. It emphasizes action will protect workers carrying out their duties as summer temperatures increase. The proposed rule from OSHA has undergone significant public comments and extensive economic analyses since October 2021, focusing on compliance across various industries.
Plan of Action for USPS
- Implement OSHA's proposed rule.
- Enhance heat illness prevention training.
- Provide more access to cool drinking water and regular breaks when temperatures exceed 90 degrees.
“It is clear that the Postal Service must do more to protect the health and safety of its workforce,” the letter concludes. The Hill has reached out to DeJoy's office for further comment.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.