State lawmakers aim to provide better protections for workers in hot weather

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Donald Jordan has a passion for landscaping. He’s been doing it for 16 years.

“Our company focuses on installation, whether it be trees, grass, sod, custom flower beds, ground covers, walkways,” he said.

In his line of work, he’s almost always outside.

“We kind of just try to drink a lot of water first thing in the morning, wear proper gear. I like to keep myself fully protected from the sun,” said Jordan.

He’s one of many people working outdoors just as metro Atlanta is expected to feel like it’s more than 100 degrees outside in the coming days. In his career, he’s seen very scary situations.

“I’ve witnessed people pass out from heat exhaustion, not enough water,” he said.

In an effort to better protect outdoor workers, Georgia State Representatives Viola Davis, Kim Schofield, and Sandra Scott introduced H.R. 393. It calls for heat safety standards to be adopted across the state.

Some of the measures include rest breaks in cool or shaded areas, access to clean drinking water, as well as whistleblower protection for workers who decide to speak up about working conditions.

“I think it’s great. I think it’s definitely something that will benefit myself and other people that work out in the elements,” said Jordan.

Dr. Frita Fisher sees heat exhaustion and heat stroke all the time. She said it begins with excessive sweat and clammy skin, and even headaches.

“By the time you progress to a heat stroke you actually get dry skin because your body has lost the ability to regulate itself,” said Fisher.

She recommends listening to your body in this heat, and is also pleased to hear lawmakers want to pass this resolution.

“It doesn’t get a whole lot of attention so it’s really good that we have legislation that’s paying attention and it could save lives,” said Fisher.