Summer Heat Presents Risks for Those Who Work Outdoors in Ohio

It’s summer, and that means that it’s getting hot in Ohio. After a warmer-than-usual June, MSN reports that “[s]oaring temperatures are expected to continue into the summer for Ohio and other Great Lakes states.” For those who work outdoors, high temperatures present a number of risks; and, as Columbus workers’ compensation attorneys, each summer we hear from people who have suffered heat-related injuries and illnesses on the job.

Understanding the Risks of Working in Hot Summer Temperatures

The risks associated with working in hot summer temperatures are very real. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explain, “Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments may be at risk of heat stress. . . . Heat stress can result in heatstroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes.” These are all potentially serious medical conditions, and the risks increase the longer workers continue to do their jobs without taking a break and cooling down.

In addition to heatstroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rashes, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to other risks as well. For example, the CDC notes that dizziness and sweaty palms can increase the risk of accidents on the job, and coming into contact with objects that have been heated by the sun can cause severe burns that require medical treatment.

All types of outdoor workers can face these risks (among others) during the summer months. This includes, but is by no means limited to, workers in the following occupations:

• Agriculture
• Construction
• Delivery drivers
• Emergency response
• Home cleaning, painting and repair
• Landscaping
• Outdoor athletics, entertainment and recreation
• Roofing
• Utilities
• Waste management

Even if you work inside, the summer heat could still increase your risk of injury or illness. For example, garages and warehouses can become extremely hot during the summer months; and, since you are inside, it can be harder to judge the temperature of your work environment—even if it has increased dramatically.

Understanding Your Rights After Suffering a Heat-Related Injury or Illness

If you suffer any type of injury or illness due to heat exposure at work, you will want to speak with a Columbus workers compensation attorney about filing a claim for benefits. In Ohio, workers’ compensation covers all types of job-related medical conditions—including those resulting from exposure. While many people think they need to be injured in an accident in order to file for workers comp, this is not the case. Exposure-related injuries and illnesses can be both dangerous and costly, and filing for benefits can be crucial to workers’ health and financial wellbeing.

Talk to a Columbus Workers’ Compensation Attorney for Free

If you have suffered a heat-related injury or illness at work, we encourage you to contact us promptly for a free, no-obligation consultation. To speak with an experienced Columbus workers compensation attorney about your legal rights in confidence, call 888-444-7440 or tell us how you prefer to be contacted online now.