Colorado Bill Seeks to Protect Workers from Extreme Temperatures
Colorado lawmakers propose a bill to protect workers from extreme temperatures with required safety measures and prevention plans.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Mar 05, 2025
A new bill introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives aims to safeguard workers from the dangers of extreme heat and cold on the job. House Bill 25-1286, sponsored by Representatives Velasco and Froelich and Senators Weissman and Cutter, would require employers to implement protections for workers exposed to extreme temperatures.
The legislation mandates measures such as temperature mitigation, designated rest breaks, and the development of temperature-related injury and illness prevention plans (TRIIPP) at workplaces across the state. If passed, the bill would establish guidelines for both indoor and outdoor work environments to minimize the risks associated with extreme weather conditions.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Employers must monitor temperature and humidity conditions at work sites, ensuring that workers are protected from heat at or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit or cold at or below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Workers must be provided with access to potable drinking water, shaded or heated rest areas, and scheduled breaks to prevent temperature-related illnesses.
- Employers must implement acclimatization procedures for workers newly exposed to extreme temperatures, ensuring a gradual adjustment period to reduce the risk of heat or cold stress.
- Specific safety measures are required for high-risk conditions, such as when air quality advisories are in effect, workers are required to wear protective gear, or work shifts extend beyond 12 hours.
- The bill includes requirements for the creation and implementation of emergency response plans for workers experiencing temperature-related illnesses, including heatstroke and hypothermia.
Employer Responsibilities and Compliance House Bill 25-1286 places the onus on employers to establish and maintain policies that prioritize worker safety in extreme weather conditions. Businesses would be required to:
- Develop and implement a TRIIPP for all affected work areas.
- Designate a temperature safety coordinator responsible for monitoring conditions and enforcing safety protocols.
- Train employees and supervisors on the risks of temperature-related illnesses and proper emergency response procedures.
- Maintain written records of temperature monitoring and any workplace incidents related to extreme heat or cold.
Legislative and Industry Support The bill is backed by worker advocacy groups, labor unions, and occupational safety organizations that emphasize the need for legal protections against extreme temperature exposure. Supporters argue that climate change and rising temperatures have increased the risks for workers, particularly those in construction, agriculture, and outdoor labor sectors.
“This legislation is a necessary step in protecting Colorado’s workforce,” said Representative Velasco. “Every worker deserves a safe environment, whether they are facing sweltering heat in the summer or frigid temperatures in the winter.”
Opponents of the bill, including some business organizations, have expressed concerns about the financial burden of compliance and the potential impact on productivity. However, proponents counter that investing in worker safety leads to long-term benefits, including reduced absenteeism and improved job performance.
Implementation and Next Steps If passed, the bill would take effect on April 1, 2026. However, it is subject to a referendum process, meaning that if enough signatures are gathered to challenge the law, it would be placed on the November 2026 ballot for voter approval. The outcome will determine whether Colorado joins other states in adopting stricter workplace protections for extreme temperatures.
For more information on House Bill 25-1286 and updates on its legislative progress, visit Colorado General Assembly’s website.