Extreme heat, Luca Zaia signs the ordinance that prohibits outdoor work during the most critical hours

"I have signed an important ordinance, which introduces urgent and concrete measures to protect the health of those who work under the sun. This is a necessary measure, to protect workers exposed to the sun, aimed at the agriculture, construction and quarry sectors. The provision is targeted and applies only when it is really necessary: ​​from July 3 to August 31, it will be forbidden to carry out outdoor work activities between 12:30 and 4:00 p.m., but exclusively in the areas of Veneto where, according to scientific data updated in real time by the Worklimate portal, a "High" risk level is detected for workers exposed to the sun and engaged in intense physical activity": the president of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaia, made this known.

Zaia adds: "We wanted to avoid generalized bans, but at the same time guarantee maximum protection where the weather conditions become dangerous. Working under the scorching sun, with high levels of humidity and physical effort, can seriously put your health at risk. With this ordinance we want to prevent heat stroke, serious fatigue and situations that, unfortunately, have already occurred in recent years. Protecting your health comes first." Regional ordinance no. 34 implements the Guidelines for the protection of workers from heat and solar radiation approved by the Conference of the Regions and makes their application mandatory in cases where, despite the preventive measures already adopted by employers, a significant risk remains. The text also provides that "company agreements already in force, if they guarantee equal or greater protection than that established by the ordinance, remain valid and fully operational", thus enhancing the good practices already present in the Veneto production system.

"This provision - continues Zaia - was not written alone or closed in an office. It is the result of a concrete discussion with the trade unions and employers' organizations, which I sincerely thank for the constructive spirit and sense of responsibility demonstrated. The Regional Coordination Committee for Safety at Work met in Venice, and Councilor Manuela Lanzarin, who chaired the meeting on my behalf, was able to lead the discussion in an effective and decisive way". The ordinance also extends to work carried out in closed, non-air-conditioned environments, if affected by external heat. Urgent public utility and civil protection activities are excluded, although adequate protection is required, for which a risk assessment by the employer is still required, in line with the provisions of Legislative Decree 81/2008. "But the rule is not enough. The heat - concludes Zaia - also affects those who do not work: I am thinking of the elderly who are alone, the most fragile people, those who live in difficult conditions. This is why I appeal to the citizens: let's give a hand to those close to us, let's activate a neighborhood watch, let's not leave anyone alone. Even a small gesture can save a life".