Workspan Daily News Bytes for July 5, 2024
Workspan Daily
July 05, 2024

Proposed Rule Aims to Protect Workers from Extreme Heat 

On July 2, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a proposed rule that seeks to protect millions of workers from the significant health risks of extreme heat. If finalized, the proposed rule would help protect approximately 36 million workers in indoor and outdoor work settings and substantially reduce heat injuries, illnesses and deaths in the workplace. 

According to the DOL announcement, the proposed rule would require employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by excessive temperatures. Among other things, the plan would require employers to evaluate heat risks and — when related risks to workers increase — implement requirements for water consumption, rest breaks and indoor temperature control. It would also require a plan to protect new or returning workers unaccustomed to working in high heat conditions. 

Employers would also be required to provide training, have procedures to respond if a worker is experiencing signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness, and take immediate action to help a worker experiencing signs and symptoms of a heat emergency. 

Bath & Body Works Introduces Employee Tuition Program

Bath & Body Works recently unveiled an initiative called “Investing in You,” a suite of programs and benefits designed to support associates throughout their personal and professional journeys. 

According to a company press release, the program hopes to promote associate growth, development and retention by offering educational opportunities, tuition reimbursement options and financial stability resources to support career advancement and overall well-being. 

Benefits are available to all eligible U.S.-based associates across its stores, distribution centers and home office.  

Survey: 81% of Young People Say Four-Day Workweek Would Boost Productivity

As reported by CNBC, a national survey from CNBC/Generation Lab of 1,033 people aged 18 to 34 found 81% of respondents believe a four-day workweek would boost their company’s productivity, while 19% said productivity would decline.

Although survey respondents largely agreed on workweek length, they were less unified when asked about work setting. Sixty percent said they do their best work in the office, while the other 40% said they do so at home. 

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