As extreme summer heat leads to increased absenteeism and reduced productivity, manufacturing and engineering firms like Tata Steel, Larsen & Toubro, Nayara Energy, Thermax, and Maruti Suzuki are implementing measures to protect their employees. Initiatives include providing desert coolers, air-conditioned rest areas, and AC transportation, distributing rehydration salts, conducting medical check-ups, and offering doctor consultations. Tata Steel adjusts job schedules to minimize direct sunlight exposure, while L&T extends lunch breaks for outdoor workers.
The states - including Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat - are estimating expenditure to have risen 21.5% in 2022-23, and plan to increase it further by 11% in 2023-24.
The proposed rule to implement Title IX of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act would amend OMB’s Guidance for Grants and Agreements to support federal agencies implementing the Build America, Buy America Act requirements. OMB is accepting comments through March 13, 2023.
The EPA announced it would add nine types of PFAS as subject to the Toxics Release Inventory reporting requirements. The EPA’s actions continue to broaden the impact on industry to comply with the significant reporting obligations. These are notable for manufacturers.