Trump's OSHA Pick Faces Heat Safety Controversy Amidst New Regulations

In an unexpected turn, President Trump's nomination of David Keeling to lead the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has ignited debate over workplace safety, particularly regarding extreme heat regulations. Keeling, who has extensive previous experience with UPS, a company under scrutiny for neglecting its drivers' requests for air-conditioning, is set to oversee the agency as it contemplates new federal measures aimed at safeguarding workers from heat-related risks. These proposed regulations could strike a chord with an estimated 36 million employees, mandating water and rest breaks in high-temperature conditions, especially in sectors such as agriculture and construction. While the International Brotherhood of Teamsters supports Keeling, citing his expertise in health and safety, critics argue his track record at UPS speaks to a troubling reluctance to address heat hazards, particularly for delivery drivers.

David Keeling's past at UPS, where he was a key player in resisting demands for air-conditioning in delivery vans despite drivers suffering from heat-related illnesses, surfaces as a potential conflict as he steps up for a pivotal role in public health oversight. As the Senate committee prepares for a confirmation vote, labor unions remain divided on whether Keeling would adequately advocate for essential heat safety protections, a pressing issue as climate conditions continue to escalate.