Arizona, known for its desert geography, experiences some of the hottest climates in the United States, with summer temperatures often exceeding 38 °C (100 °F). This extreme heat places over a million workers at risk, particularly in sectors like construction, agriculture, transportation services, and landscaping. A report from AZ Mirror states that protections against extreme heat for workers remain largely undeveloped, prompting the Department of Labor to propose new regulations that would require employers to provide water and breaks at temperatures above 27 °C (80.6 °F) and to monitor employees when temperatures exceed 32 °C (89.6 °F). However, these federal regulations have yet to be enacted.

Labor rights experts emphasize that workers in the most exposed industries, such as agriculture and construction, face significant risks of heat-related illnesses or even death due to their working conditions. The call for these new recommendations reflects an urgent need for increased protections for outdoor workers during the sweltering summer months. With climate change further exacerbating heat conditions, the implementation of these regulations will not only help ensure the safety and health of workers but also highlights the broader issue of worker rights and climate adaptation strategies.