Avoiding a Heat-Related Workplace Injury

Summer is here and temperatures are soaring! During this time of year it is important for employers to implement and enforce strict heat-related safety protocols. These protocols could save the lives of workers who have outdoor jobs, as well as prevent an unnecessary on-the-job injury.

There are a number of injuries and illnesses that occur from overheating that workers should try to avoid. To avoid overheating, drinking plenty of water, taking breaks and seeking shade when possible is key. As the weather forecasts continue to point toward more heat and high temperatures, employers are required to put the safety of their workers first.

To lower the risks here are four recommendations:

Acclimate in Stages. 

Allow new or returning workers who are gradually increasing their workloads to take more frequent breaks as they get acclimated to working in the heat.They need to build a tolerance for working in the heat and it will take time. The lack of acclimatization is a major risk factor for heat-illness fatalities. New workers and those returning from a break should begin with 20% of their usual workload on their first day, increasing by no more than 20% on each subsequent day.

Leverage Engineering Controls. 

The work environment should be at a cool temperature and there should be a reduction of manual workloads with mechanization. You can use spot air conditioning, cooling or misting fans as well as cooled seats and benches around the work area. Reducing manual work with power tools or other mechanical equipment can be helpful as well. 

Modify Work Practices

Having shorter shifts for the newly hired and giving them time to get acclimated to the work environment will help immensely. Having required mandatory rest breaks in air-conditioned buildings or in shady areas will reduce the changes of a heat related injury as well. Working in cooler times of the day as well as rotating job duties will also help avoid overheating.

Emphasize training. 

Educating all supervisors and workers about the dangers of heat stress and the types of heat-related illnesses is important. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion. All workers should also learn about prevention and first aid which includes realizing the importance of staying hydrated, recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat stress, understanding the buddy system and rotating job duties as well as knowing when and how to contact emergency medical services. 

California state law requires certain safety measures. Employers and supervisors must train workers on how to work safely in the heat and how to prevent heat-related illnesses. Fresh, cool water free of charge and providing access to shade should also be provided to workers. Employees cannot be reprimanded or face any punishment for resting when they begin to feel ill in the heat. If a worker does become ill, he or she has the right to medical treatment and a full recovery.

As summer is just getting started, it is more important than ever for workers to know their rights regarding heat safety. Employees should be clear on their entitlement to workers’ compensation in the event of an on-the-job injury. If you have suffered a heat-related on-the-job injury it is useful to seek the help of a worker’s comp lawyer. 

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Cole, Fisher, Cole, O’Keefe + Mahoney is Central California’s leading workers’ compensation and social security disability law firm. With over 30 years of successful experience, we are committed to securing maximum benefits for our clients in the Fresno, California area. Schedule a free consultation today.