Bill > H0035

This bill creates a comprehensive heat illness prevention program for employers in outdoor industries like agriculture, construction, and landscaping. The legislation requires employers to implement an approved safety program that includes training employees and supervisors about heat-related risks, providing access to cool drinking water, and establishing shade or cooling areas when temperatures reach certain thresholds. Specifically, when the heat index is 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, employers must provide shade areas large enough to accommodate workers during recovery periods, and when it reaches 90 degrees Fahrenheit, they must implement additional procedures like ensuring communication systems are available, providing frequent water breaks, and mandating 10-minute recovery periods every two hours. The bill defines key terms such as "heat illness" (which includes conditions like heat cramps and heat stroke) and establishes requirements for annual training in multiple languages that covers topics like recognizing heat illness symptoms, the importance of hydration, and acclimatization. Employers must also ensure that employees exhibiting signs of heat illness are provided immediate care, including potential medical attention. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in conjunction with the Department of Health, will be responsible for creating rules and a certification process to implement these requirements, with the law set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/35