Tarragona municipal workers face heat safety probe and new smart‑bracelet pilot

The ERC party has asked the Tarragona city council for urgent explanations after a labour inspection found that the heat‑protection measures for municipal waste‑collection staff employed by Urbaser do not meet legal standards. Councilor Jordi Fortuny warned that “the health of the workers is at risk” and highlighted the lack of air‑conditioned vehicles, adequate shade, rest areas and suitable summer clothing.

In response, the city has begun a pilot program distributing 45 smart wrist‑bands to outdoor municipal employees. The devices monitor body temperature and ambient heat, issuing an alert when the wearer reaches 37.8 °C or when the environment exceeds 42 °C, prompting a break for rest and hydration. Worker Rafael Cruz praised the initiative, saying colleagues are “very aware of how we feel and whether we need to stop.” Mayor Carme Valls noted the bracelets complement existing protective equipment and could be expanded to other municipal services if effective.