New York State Launches Extreme Heat Equipment Credit

News Summary

New York State has introduced the Extreme Heat Equipment Credit to help small businesses cope with the challenges of extreme heat. This initiative offers a one-time credit of $1,000 or 10% of annual workers’ compensation, supporting businesses to purchase essential personal protective equipment. Eligible items include cooling vests and ventilation systems to ensure employee safety during heat waves. As extreme weather becomes increasingly common, the program aims to assist eligible businesses in safeguarding their workers’ health while adapting to changing climate conditions.

New York State has launched the “Extreme Heat Equipment Credit” to assist small businesses in coping with the challenges posed by heat waves. This initiative will provide a one-time credit of $1,000 or 10% of their annual workers’ compensation, whichever is lower, for qualifying businesses. The program is designed to enable these businesses to purchase personal protective equipment specifically intended for extreme heat conditions.

The types of equipment eligible for this credit include fans, ventilation systems, cooling vests, and ventilated hard hats. These items are essential for ensuring employee comfort and safety, particularly for workers enduring long hours outdoors under extreme heat. With the announcement of this program, Governor Kathy Hochul underscored that extreme weather events have become the “new normal.” She emphasized the importance of offering protection and benefits to support hardworking employees who might be at risk for heat-related illnesses.

To qualify for the Extreme Heat Equipment Credit, businesses must employ fewer than ten workers. Eligible industries include manufacturing, warehousing, carpentry, landscaping, and farming. Furthermore, businesses must have an online account with the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) in order to apply for the program.

As the need for such initiatives arises, Rochester is anticipated to experience dangerously high temperatures and humidity levels beginning June 22. In response to these weather conditions, the City of Rochester will activate its Cool Sweep program earlier than usual, shifting from its regular July 1 start date. During this heat wave, the city will ensure that spray parks and features at ten locations remain open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for residents to cool off.

In addition to spray parks, swimming opportunities at Durand Eastman Beach will be available, provided the water quality is appropriate for recreation. Residents seeking refuge from the heat can also utilize air-conditioned spaces located within the city’s eleven libraries. However, it is important to note that R-center cooling areas will be closed for summer preparations, limiting some traditional cooling resources.

The Monroe County Department of Health has cautioned that extreme heat can have dire effects on vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic health issues. Health experts recommend that residents stay cool, remain hydrated, and check in on their at-risk neighbors throughout the duration of the heat wave.

The National Weather Service will deploy a HeatRisk map to monitor heat impacts in the Rochester area, classifying the risk level as “Major” from June 22 to June 24. Residents should be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, weakness, irritability, muscle cramps, and nausea. More severe symptoms indicating heat stroke require immediate medical assistance. The heat index, which factors in humidity, can cause actual temperatures to feel significantly warmer. A heat index of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is classified as dangerous.

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events. Average summer nights in Rochester are witnessing an upward trend in temperature, with data suggesting that the occurrences of particularly hot nights are on the rise, which can be attributed to changing climate conditions.

In an unrelated note, two local alcohol producers, Black Button Distilling and Heroes Brewing Company, have recently closed due to decreased demand and market challenges. Both businesses cited high production costs and inflation as significant barriers to their operations. Additionally, Heroes Brewing Company’s co-founder noted competitive pressures from cannabis products and non-alcoholic options as factors affecting business viability. Despite the struggles faced, the brewery maintained a commitment to community support through charitable contributions since its establishment in 2016.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WHEC: New York State Offering Credit to Eligible Small Businesses for Heat Safety Gear
• Wikipedia: Extreme Heat
• Democrat & Chronicle: Rochester NY Launches Cool Sweep
• Google Search: Extreme Heat Effects
• Rochester First: Severe Heat Waves Hit Southern Europe
• Google Scholar: Heat Waves Climate Change
• WHEC: Two Rochester Alcohol Makers Shut Down
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Temperature Effects on Health
• Rochester First: Outdoor Workers Staying Safe in Extreme Heat
• Google News: Small Businesses Heat Safety