What's happening: New York workers fight against extreme heat
In New York, workers are organizing to protect themselves against extreme heat, as there is no federal standard to protect them. Dave Carew, a UPS worker, is leading efforts to educate his coworkers on how to stay safe when temperatures rise.
With forecasts of temperatures nearing 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the 4th of July holiday, Carew set up an information table outside the UPS customer center in northern Bronx. He distributed flyers and thermometers, reminding workers of their right to paid breaks when the heat is extreme.
Why it matters: The impact of extreme heat on workers
Extreme heat is a serious concern for outdoor workers, especially in cities like New York, where temperatures can be particularly high. Without a federal standard to protect them, workers are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, including exhaustion and heatstroke.
UPS workers, for example, have already won a clause in their labor contract that requires the company to install air conditioning in new vehicles starting next year. However, there are still risks on the job, especially in the cargo compartment of trucks, where temperatures can reach hazardous levels.
The mechanism behind extreme heat: The science behind global warming
Global warming is increasing temperatures worldwide, making extreme heat more common. This occurs because the burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere.
Additionally, cities like New York tend to be hotter than rural areas due to the urban heat island effect. This occurs because urban surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, absorb and retain heat, making cities hotter.
Bigger picture: How New York compares to other cities
New York is not the only city dealing with extreme heat. Cities worldwide are facing similar challenges, from creating safety standards for outdoor workers to implementing urban cooling solutions.
However, New York's approach is unique, as it involves a combination of worker efforts, community organizations, and government agencies. Mayor Zohran Mamdani's executive order, which aims to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat, is an example of this.
What's next: Implications and next steps
As temperatures continue to rise, it's likely that New York will face more extreme heat events. Therefore, it's essential that workers, community organizations, and government agencies continue to work together to protect outdoor workers.
This may include creating more cooling stations, distributing educational materials, and implementing policies that protect workers from heat-related illnesses. Additionally, it's crucial that workers are heard and their needs are taken into account when developing solutions for extreme heat.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published by Grist with the title No federal heat standard? NYC workers are building their own safety net. on July 13, 2026.