Trump’s OSHA Nominee Faces Heat Safety Criticism

Critics argue his track record at UPS undermines his fitness to protect workers from extreme heat exposure.

David Keeling, a key figure nominated by President Trump to lead the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is experiencing scrutiny over his past affiliations and decisions regarding worker safety, specifically in relation to extreme heat conditions. Known for his extensive tenure at UPS, Keeling's confirmation comes at a pivotal moment when the agency is set to deliberate on new regulations aimed at safeguarding approximately 36 million workers exposed to hazardous heat levels in various sectors, including agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.

During his nearly four-decade career at UPS, many truck drivers voiced urgent pleas for essential modifications, such as air-conditioning in delivery vehicles, citing severe health risks posed by high temperatures. Despite mounting evidence of heat-related illnesses and requests for cooling measures, UPS maintained a stance against such improvements, arguing against the practicality of air-conditioning for vehicles frequently making stops. This inaction has sparked discontent among drivers, some of whom attribute their struggles to Keeling's leadership during that period.

The upcoming vote in the Senate committee poses a critical juncture for Keeling's appointment, with divided opinions among labor groups. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, representing a significant workforce of UPS drivers, expressed support for Keeling, emphasizing his experience in health and safety as beneficial for OSHA. However, a faction of labor advocates and former UPS employees remain skeptical, citing Keeling's history of inadequate responses to worker safety concerns during his previous tenure.

As the U.S. grapples with increasing instances of extreme heat exacerbated by climate change, the decisions made under Keeling’s leadership at OSHA will have far-reaching implications for worker protection and safety standards across the nation.