Colorado has enacted House Bill 26-1272, titled “Extreme Temperatures Worker Protections,” introducing a new statewide framework aimed at addressing heat‑ and cold‑related risks in the workplace. The law reflects increasing regulatory focus on climate‑related workplace safety.
Effective Date
The law is scheduled to take effect August 12, 2026, which reflects the standard effective date 90 days after adjournment of the General Assembly, unless a referendum petition delays implementation.
New Statewide Focus on Temperature‑Related Workplace Risks
The legislation recognizes that extreme heat and cold pose significant risks to worker health and safety, particularly as climate conditions become more volatile.
It establishes a framework to:
- Collect and track temperature‑related injuries and illnesses;
- Develop statewide guidance and tools for employers; and
- Lay the groundwork for potential future safety standards and rulemaking.
Mandatory Data Collection and Reporting Infrastructure
The law requires the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics to significantly expand data tracking on workplace heat and cold risks.
By January 15, 2027, the Division must:
- Create a public reporting platform for temperature‑related workplace incidents;
- Collect and integrate data from public health surveillance systems; and
- Coordinate with workers’ compensation and health data entities to monitor temperature‑related injuries and emergencies.
This initiative is designed to improve visibility into workplace risks and support future regulatory action.
Development of Model Prevention Plan (TRIIPP)
A central element of the law is the creation of a model Temperature‑Related Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (TRIIPP).
By July 1, 2028, the Division must develop a comprehensive model plan that employers can use, including procedures for:
- Providing potable drinking water at no cost;
- Ensuring access to cool‑down or warm‑up areas;
- Monitoring workplace temperature conditions;
- Acclimatizing new or returning workers;
- Training employees to recognize symptoms of heat or cold illness; and
- Responding to temperature‑related medical emergencies.
The model plan must be publicly available and updated at least every five years.
Expanded Definitions and Worker Coverage
The law adopts broad definitions to capture both heat‑ and cold‑related risks, including:
- “Temperature‑related injury or illness,” encompassing both heat stress and cold exposure; and
- “Worker,” which includes not only employees but also certain individuals working through contractor arrangements.
This reflects a broader approach to workplace protection that may impact a wide range of labor relationships.
Authority for Future Rulemaking
The legislation authorizes the Division to adopt rules necessary to implement the law, signaling the potential for:
- Future binding workplace safety standards; and
- Expanded employer obligations beyond the initial data‑collection and guidance framework.
Employers Impacted
The law is relevant to:
- Employers across industries in Colorado, particularly those with outdoor or climate‑exposed workforces;
- Businesses in construction, agriculture, logistics, and other sectors with elevated exposure to extreme weather conditions; and
- Entities utilizing contract labor arrangements, given the broadened definition of “worker.”
Employer Takeaway
Although the law does not yet impose prescriptive workplace requirements, it signals a significant shift toward formal regulation of heat and cold exposure risks.
Employers should:
- Begin evaluating current practices related to heat and cold safety;
- Monitor upcoming guidance and rulemaking from the Division; and
- Prepare to implement elements of a temperature‑related injury and illness prevention plan in anticipation of future regulatory requirements.
Colorado’s approach reflects a broader national trend toward recognizing climate‑related workplace hazards as a core compliance issue, and employers should expect continued regulatory developments in this area.