The Left party is calling for improved occupational safety measures concerning heat. Ates Gürpinar, the party’s health policy spokesman, stated in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” that heat protection must be viewed as a public and social responsibility, requiring safeguard for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, sick individuals, or homeless people.
However, Gürpinar argued that efforts must begin much earlier, specifically through occupational safety protocols, particularly for employees who work outdoors. Consequently, the party demands mandatory and clearly defined protective measures across all workplaces, as well as a specific compensation system, a heat short-time work allowance, for outdoor laborers.
Furthermore, he elaborated that federal, state, and local governments are obligated to develop and consistently enforce comprehensive heat protection strategies throughout the country. These strategies must encompass public, cool refuge areas, readily available free drinking water, and widespread early warning systems that effectively reach every member of the population. Additionally, there is a need for permanent funding for heat assistance programs that utilize outreach social work, allowing high-risk individuals to be actively supported and protected.
