Workers in the United States who harvest tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers, cut herbs, and prune and propagate succulents often work under oppressive heat and humidity conditions. Many of these workers toil in greenhouses, where temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The number of greenhouse and nursery workers has been on the rise in recent years, with an increase of over 16,000 workers according to the latest U.S. agricultural census.
Despite working indoors in controlled environments, these workers face risks of heat-related illnesses and injuries. Many are not included in initiatives to protect agricultural workers, as they fall into a grey area between indoor and agricultural work. The ability to control greenhouse conditions makes it important to enforce protections for these workers, who are becoming increasingly vulnerable to heat-related health issues.
Workers who do not receive adequate breaks outdoors or in cooler environments are at higher risk, with many fearing dismissal if they take breaks. The combination of heat and humidity in greenhouses makes it difficult for the body to cool down, leading to heat stress and potential heat-related illnesses. There is a lack of federal regulations specifically addressing heat in agricultural workplaces, making it challenging for workers to advocate for themselves.
The growing number of greenhouse workers highlights the need for more research, training, and regulations to protect the most vulnerable workers in this industry. The challenges faced by these workers underscore the urgent need for action to ensure their safety and well-being in the face of increasing global temperatures and the popularity of greenhouse agriculture.
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