MAAP Coalition Meeting: Extreme Heat and Outdoor Worker Health

On June 4, 2025, MAAP hosted a timely webinar focused on protecting workers, residents, and communities from the growing threats of extreme heat. The session featured Al Vega, MAAP Steering Committee member and Chief of Strategy & Engagement at MassCOSH, along with representatives from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health (BCEH).

The session highlighted practical strategies and new tools developed by BCEH to support public health professionals, labor advocates, and local leaders in responding to dangerous heat across the state.

Key takeaways from the session include:

• Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast: BCEH unveiled its new Unhealthy Heat Forecast tool, providing real-time, location-based alerts and guidance. Designed for use by clinicians, community members, and municipal leaders, it’s an essential resource for planning and responding to days with hazardous heat levels.

• Community Health and Safety Guidance: BCEH reviewed its updated Extreme Heat Guidance, outlining how to protect vulnerable populations during high-heat events through hydration, cooling access, risk communication, and outreach.

• Labor and Workplace Safety Advocacy: Al Vega spoke about the need for stronger protections for outdoor and frontline workers. Participants discussed opportunities to embed worker safety standards related to heat into local and state policies.