Gig worker safety

Europe’s Heatwave: School Closures, Outdoor Work Limits, and the Struggle to Adapt

France shuts schools, a dramatic and necessary response, as a relentless heatwave blankets much of Europe. It’s a stark indication of the severity of the situation when such measures are deemed essential to protect children. Seeing schools close is a clear sign that the heat isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s becoming dangerous.

Italy limits outdoor work, a move born of necessity to protect its workforce. It’s not just the elderly or vulnerable who are at risk; even those who consider themselves fit and healthy, like the individual working outdoors, are feeling the strain. The “siesta time” culture suddenly makes a lot more sense, doesn’t it?… Continue reading

Trump’s Budget Cuts Jeopardize Safety Training for High-Risk Workers

Trump’s cuts to safety training programs represent a dangerous disregard for the well-being of American workers, particularly those in high-risk professions. This isn’t just about a few dollars saved; it’s a systemic dismantling of protections designed to keep people alive and healthy on the job. The drastic reduction in funding, symbolized by the reported 50% cut to NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health), is indicative of a broader, more concerning trend.

This isn’t simply about misplaced priorities; it’s about a deliberate policy shift that prioritizes corporate profits over human life. The argument that industry should bear the cost of safety training ignores the reality that businesses often prioritize cost-cutting measures over worker safety, especially when faced with lax enforcement or a perceived lack of consequences.… Continue reading

Town Official Shoots Lost DoorDash Driver

A DoorDash driver, lost and seeking directions, was allegedly shot by John Reilly III, the Town of Chester highway superintendent, according to police reports. The driver, after unsuccessfully attempting to obtain directions from several homes, arrived at Reilly’s residence.

Reilly, a 48-year-old federally licensed firearms dealer, reportedly instructed the driver to leave his property. However, as the driver attempted to depart in his vehicle, Reilly allegedly fired multiple shots.

The driver was struck once in the back, sustaining serious injuries that required hospitalization. Fortunately, the driver is now reported to be in stable condition.

Reilly faces serious charges stemming from the incident, including first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a firearm.… Continue reading