Nevada’s New Law Allows Early Start Times for Construction

News Summary

Nevada has enacted a new law permitting construction crews to begin work as early as 5 a.m. This law aims to protect workers from extreme summer heat, changing previous regulations that limited start times to 7 a.m. The new rules are effective from April 1st to September 30th and require construction sites to be at least 300 feet away from residential areas. The legislation has received widespread support and responds to increased heat-related health concerns among construction workers.

Nevada Welcomes Early Construction Start Times to Combat Extreme Heat Risks

A new law in Nevada permits construction crews on commercial and infrastructure projects to commence work as early as 5 a.m. This measure aims to protect construction workers from the hazardous effects of extreme heat, particularly during the sweltering summer months. Governor Joe Lombardo signed the law last month as part of a broader effort to address increasing concerns around heat-related injuries and illnesses in the construction sector.

Before this legislative change, construction activities near residential neighborhoods were restricted from starting before 7 a.m. due to stringent local noise regulations. The revised schedule allows construction work to begin earlier, specifically from April 1st through September 30th, a period when temperatures often reach dangerous levels. However, this new allowance comes with conditions; construction must occur at least 300 feet away from any occupied residential property to apply for the early start.

Response to Rising Heat-Related Incidents

The enactment of this law comes as a direct response to a surge in heat-related complaints and workplace injuries, especially noted since 2021. In 2024, the Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recorded a staggering 485 heat-related complaints, marking the highest count in its history. Alarmingly, 5% of these complaints originated from the construction industry. Furthermore, the same year witnessed 526 heat-related fatalities in Clark County alone, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.

Understanding the Risks Faced by Construction Workers

Construction work is inherently demanding, requiring physical exertion in high-temperature environments and handling heavy materials like asphalt. These conditions contribute to a heightened risk of heat stress among workers. With the national guidance from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health suggesting that high-risk tasks be scheduled during cooler parts of the day, the new law aligns well with these recommendations.

Early Start Times Already Seen in Some Areas

Interestingly, certain regions within Clark County previously permitted construction to begin as early as 2 a.m. in non-residential areas, reflecting a growing trend towards accommodating early working hours. The recent bill, known simply as AB478, witnessed unanimous support from various construction industry stakeholders and passed smoothly through both the Assembly and Senate.

Concerns Over Noise Complaints

Despite the law’s intention to protect workers, there are concerns about potential noise complaints arising from construction activities starting earlier in the day. Balancing the needs of construction workers with the tranquility of residential neighborhoods will be a crucial challenge as enforcement begins.

Similar Legislative Moves in Neighboring States

Nevada is not alone in implementing such measures. Arizona has also put similar regulations in place, allowing construction crews to begin their work during the early morning hours in the sweltering summer months. These proactive steps aim to enhance the safety and health of workers engaged in high-risk environments across the region.

In conclusion, the new law permitting early construction start times is a crucial development aimed at safeguarding Nevada’s construction workforce amid increasing summer heat challenges. By allowing projects to commence earlier in the day, the state hopes to mitigate the risks associated with heat stress and foster a safer working environment.

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Additional Resources

• Nevada Current: New State Law Lets Construction Crews Beat the Heat
• Fox 5 Vegas: New Nevada Law Allows Construction to Begin Early at 5 AM
• KTNV: How Nevada OSHA Plans to Enforce New Heat Regulation
• Governing: Nevada Introduces Bill to Combat Extreme Heat
• The Nevada Independent: Why Planting More Trees May Not Be the Silver Bullet to Combat Extreme Heat in Las Vegas