The death of a Texas delivery driver highlights the heated debate over the safety of workers in the sweltering Lone Star State as temperatures have soared above 100 degrees this summer. According to reports, the 51-year-old man was dropped off in the early hours of Monday morning after completing his route. He was found several hours later, dead in his truck with heat stroke being the suspected cause.
His death follows the recent deaths of three other delivery and construction workers due to heat in the state, as well as multiple worker strikes and protests demanding better workplace safety measures. The workers have called for their employers to provide air conditioned workplaces and taken-on rest breaks, as well as improved ventilation and more frequent water breaks.
The state has issued guidelines to employers on how to deal with hot weather conditions, such as providing air-conditioned rest areas, providing cool drinks, and monitoring workers for signs of heat stress. However, many employees say their employers are not taking the necessary measures to keep them safe.
The death of the delivery driver has now prompted calls within the state to do more to protect the health and safety of workers in hot climates. With the arrival of summer, more deaths are expected unless steps are taken to protect workers from the heat.
