Harris County Commissioners Court has approved a historic Worksite Safety Policy, establishing the county’s first unified system to strengthen oversight, accountability, and protections for workers on County-funded construction projects.

Texas leads the nation in workplace fatalities, with 564 deaths reported in 2023. Harris County ranks first in the state for severe construction, heat-related, and overall workplace injuries. With only one OSHA inspector for every 70,000 workers, many workplace injuries go unreported.

“I’m proud that Harris County took action to improve safety, protection, and opportunity for workers and their families,” said Commissioner Lesley Briones. “By strengthening and standardizing workplace safety practices, inspections, and documentation, we will hold contractors working on County projects to a higher standard. Together, we are building a safer, fairer Harris County.”

Commissioner Rodney Ellis added, “No project, dollar, or deadline is worth a human life. Harris County is not only enhancing safety for workers on county contracts but also setting a new standard for other jurisdictions in our region and across the United States.”

The new policy builds on the 2023 Contractor Safety Record Policy and is a collaborative effort between county officials, unions, labor advocates, and responsible contractors. Beginning January 1, 2026, contractors on County-funded projects valued at $1 million or more (and subcontracts of $100,000+) must meet strengthened safety requirements.

Key provisions include:

• Mandatory site-specific safety plans, including heat illness prevention and response.
• Ten-minute paid rest breaks for every four hours worked.
• Scheduled and unannounced inspections with authority to issue stop-work orders.
• Free personal protective equipment for all workers.
• A worker safety hotline with anti-retaliation protections.
• A Worksite Safety Committee to review trends and recommend improvements.

Supporters hailed the policy as a major step forward. Linda Morales of the Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation said it “strengthens training, reporting, and accountability on every jobsite.” Contractor Vladimir Naranjo emphasized that safe worksites mean fewer accidents, fewer delays, and stronger businesses. Juan Rubio of Workers Defense Project noted that the policy ensures every worker on a County project has water, rest, training, and a safe job site.

The policy is expected to improve safety, protect workers’ rights, and set a regional example for construction standards across Texas and the U.S.