Two Farm Workers Die This Week

California state officials are investigating the death of two farm workers in early July. In one case, 30-year-old farmworker who had been working at a watermelon field southwest of Fresno, near Coalinga died after coming out of the field. Another 37-year-old worker collapsed in triple-digit temperature at a farm near Delano

Cal/OSHA officials are trying to determine if heat was a factor. Farmers are mandated to provide adequate rest, water and shade for their field workers. Ag industry officials say nearly all farmers are compliant in in preventing heat related illnesses.

Above 85 degrees, employers must provide shade to accommodate at least 25 percent of the employees on the shift. Employees must be allowed and are encouraged to take a five-minute break in the shaded area upon request.

Above 95 degrees, employers must, "to the extent practicable," observe employees for heat illness, ensure that employees are able to communicate with a supervisor at all times – either by voice or with a cellphone, and remind employees to continue to drink plenty of water.

A UC Davis Study confirmed what officials say is that while water is available, it’s sometimes difficult to insure the employees drink enough. And during triple-digit temperatures, there is a need for 24 good gulps of water during a six-hour shift. The study showed that the average farm worker was only consuming 10.7 drinks.