A failed proposal would require employer plans for heat and cold

Employers would develop and carry out a written plan to protect workers from heat or cold stress. The plan would cover workers at risk from workplace apparent temperatures of 80°F or higher, or 15°F or lower. Employers would develop the plan with help from the labor commissioner. Plans would include liquids and paid breaks in areas protected from the temperature. Employees or their representatives would take part in making the plan. It would be written in a language understood by most employees if most do not understand English. If passed, the plan requirement would take effect 60 days after passage.

Employers would provide an education and training program to all employees. The program would cover all employees. Training would cover heat and cold illness, symptoms, ways to reduce risks, reporting, emergency response, and employee rights. If passed, training would be provided each year after the act took effect.

Employers would adopt a policy against discrimination or retaliation. The policy would cover discrimination or retaliation by any person, including an employer's agent. The policy would protect employees who use rights under this paragraph or report violations to a federal, state, or local government entity. If passed, the policy requirement would take effect 60 days after passage.