Arizona Governor Forms Heat Safety Task Force to Protect Workers
A new statewide effort brings together employers, workers, and safety officials to address rising heat risks on the job.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- May 22, 2025
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs signed an executive order Wednesday establishing a Workplace Heat Safety Task Force aimed at protecting workers from rising temperatures across the state. The initiative directs the Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH), under the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA), to lead the task force in developing statewide employer guidelines on heat safety by the end of the year.
The move builds on the ICA’s Heat Stress State Emphasis Program, launched in July 2023 to reduce heat-related illnesses and injuries through inspections, training, and compliance assistance.
“We are taking action to protect Arizonans from heat risk in the workplace,” Hobbs said in a statement. “Whether building our homes, growing our produce, or manufacturing the next advanced technology, Arizonans deserve to be safe at work. Through this executive order, we are partnering with employers to ensure the health and safety of all Arizona workers.”
State officials say approximately one in five Arizona workers is employed in an industry vulnerable to heat hazards. In 2024, the number of heat-related workers’ compensation claims decreased significantly, which officials attribute in part to measures introduced by the Hobbs administration.
ICA Director Gaetano Testini called heat safety a smart business decision as well as a regulatory responsibility, citing benefits such as improved productivity, reduced absenteeism, lower healthcare costs, and higher morale.
ADOSH has already conducted more than 460 free and voluntary consultations with employers since the Heat SEP was launched. Officials say many employers are already exceeding baseline safety requirements.
Task force members, including industry leaders and worker representatives, emphasized the need to standardize practices across the state.
“It is our duty to our employees and to the economic development of Arizona to provide heat safety guidelines that protect them and enable them to thrive,” said Sidney Hawkins, Safety and Training Director at Canyon State Electric.
Labor representatives voiced similar support. Jason Sangster, Business Manager of Ironworkers Local 75, said workers need training to identify and prevent heat illness, starting with access to cool water, shade, and rest.
Grace Appelbe of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Arizona Manufacturers Council noted that Arizona’s diverse economy demands customized solutions rather than federal mandates.
David Martin of the Arizona Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America added that the construction industry has long managed heat risks and welcomes clearer OSHA-aligned guidelines.
The executive order builds on recent heat resilience initiatives launched under Hobbs’ administration, including the state’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan and the creation of the nation’s first statewide Chief Heat Officer role. State officials say the task force will play a key role in ensuring Arizona remains proactive in addressing the risks of extreme heat.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.