Requires Heat Safety Rules for Workers
Michigan · HB6442 · Introduced Oct 28, 2026
Why it matters
Outdoor and indoor workers in hot conditions would get set break times and heat safety plans. Employers that do not follow the rules could face state enforcement.
What it does
- Requires employers to make and carry out a plan to prevent heat illness, including an emergency response plan
- Requires heat monitoring for both indoor and outdoor work
- Requires water and rest breaks that increase as temperatures rise, based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Index
- Requires employers to watch workers for signs of heat illness and train them on prevention
- Requires employers to report heat-related illness, injury, and death data to the state labor department
Status
Latest action (2026-11-05): Bill Electronically Reproduced 10/28/2026
About this bill
Would require the state labor director to write heat safety standards for workers, including plans, monitoring, and water and rest breaks. Employers that qualify for an exemption would not have to follow the rules.
Labor: health and safety; occupational health standards related to exposure to work in hot environments; require director to promulgate. Amends 1974 PA 154 (MCL 408.1001 - 408.1094) by adding sec. 14s.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Worker safety groups would likely say the rules protect people from heat illness on the job. They would say clear break rules are needed as temperatures rise.
💬 The case against
Some businesses would likely say the break and monitoring rules add cost and paperwork. They may also say a state standard should match federal rules.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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