The Peru Gazette

Credit Helps Address Connection Between Extreme Heat and Worker Health and Safety, as Highlighted by NYSIF’s 2024 Report

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF)’s new Extreme Heat Equipment Credit. The credit helps qualifying small businesses protect their workers through the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies designed to minimize the effects of heat exposure.

“Extreme weather events have unfortunately become our new normal, and here in New York, we are prioritizing resources to help our small businesses and workers statewide,” Governor Hochul said. “Our hardworking employees across the state deserve to have access to necessary benefits in instances of heat-related illnesses, especially those who work long hours outdoors.”

With 2024 being the hottest year on record, and each year between 2015-24 ranking among the 10 hottest years on record, rising temperatures have become a critical occupational hazard for many industries. Extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion and can exacerbate preexisting conditions such as asthma, kidney disease, or heart disease. Exposure to extreme heat can also impair cognitive and motor functions, increasing the risk of on-the-job accidents.

The NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit is available to small businesses — up to 10 employees — in manufacturing, warehousing, carpentry, landscaping and farming; industries where workers are often exposed to extreme temperatures. These businesses can receive a one-time credit of $1,000 or 10 percent of their annual workers’ compensation premium, whichever is less, toward the purchase of PPE designed to protect workers from the effects of extreme heat.

Today’s initiative is the latest in NYSIF’s commitment to promote worker safety and combat the effects of climate change. NYSIF recently expanded its Climate Action Premium Credit to additional providers of health care services as well as entities engaged in the medical supply chain. The program provides financial incentives and technical support for climate action planning and implementation.

Eligible purchases under the NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit program include but are not limited to fans, ventilation systems, cooling vests, ventilated hard hats, UV-resistant safety glasses, and cooling towels. NYSIF policyholders that qualify can apply for the credit on the NYSIF website at nysif.com/ppe.