A longtime UPS driver died from warmth stroke after brutally sizzling temperatures took over Texas final week.
Driver Chris Begley’s union the Teamsters informed native outlet WSMTV the 57-year-old collapsed whereas making deliveries close to McKinney, Texas final Wednesday, the place temperatures have been round 101 levels.
He initially refused a visit to the hospital however entered care days later and died on Sunday, in response to his union.
Begley’s fellow employee mourned the demise of the 28-year UPS veteran in a touching obituary, the place they known as his “dedication to delivering packages safely and on time” a testomony to “the core values of the Teamsters: solidarity, integrity, and onerous work.”
“Chris Begley embodied the spirit of what it means to be a Teamster,” the tribute went on. “He was a tireless advocate for staff’ rights, at all times standing up for honest wages, protected working circumstances, and the welfare of his fellow Teamsters.”
UPS responded to information of Begley’s demise in a press release to The Messenger, the place the transport firm mentioned, “We’re cooperating with the authorities as they proceed to research the reason for demise. We practice our individuals to acknowledge the signs of warmth stress, and we reply instantly to any request for assist.”
UPS workers secured air-con for his or her vehicles of their most up-to-date contract, which was authorised by 86% of members earlier this month.
Cooling techniques received’t begin being put in till subsequent yr, when the corporate will start placing AC in “all new small bundle automobiles.”
Air con might be a life-saving useful resource for supply drivers throughout the business, who should endure scorching temperatures and lengthy shifts for his or her jobs.
Esteben Chavez, a 24-year-old UPS driver, handed away whereas delivering packages in Los Angeles final June, in response to Quartz.
The yr earlier than, employee José Cruz Rodriguez Jr. died from what his household claims was warmth publicity on the job.
Whereas temperatures soar, Democrats are hoping to enhance circumstances for staff throughout the nation.
In June, senators launched a invoice selling new “occupational security and well being normal[s] to guard staff from heat-related accidents and sicknesses.”