According to NOAH records, July 23rd recorded the highest average global temperature on record. There is a severe impact of seasonally high temperature on agricultural workers. The U.S. Department of Labor recommendations to alleviate heat stress have yet to be implemented. These include necessary work breaks, availability of cold drinking water and acclimation of new workers to high temperature and humidity.
Workers are subject to high temperatures working in both fields and greenhouses. Fortunately, forced ventilation used in chicken houses provides workers with protection, especially if evaporative cooling is installed.
In many cases, unscrupulous employers fail to provide rest breaks, knowing that employees, many of whom are undocumented, are disinclined to complain. Unions representing agricultural workers and advocacy groups are attempting to improve working conditions that are most stressful for the very young and the very old and workers with predisposing conditions including pregnancy and health problems including diabetes and asthma.