Be Wary of Work Accidents In Summer
When the weather gets warmer, workers are more prone to heat stroke and other serious illnesses.
Statistics show that the probability of work-related accidents increases 5% to 6% when temperatures exceed 90 degrees. The southern United States and the construction industry are most likely to be affected by workplace accidents and illnesses caused by extreme heat. Even though summer temperatures in New Jersey are not as hot as some other states (such as Florida, Texas, and Arizona), employers and employees should still be concerned, especially if they work outdoors.
Work injuries can be caused by direct and indirect heat exposure. Direct heat exposure involves the effect of heat on a worker’s body. This often leads to heat exhaustion or other issues. Indirect exposure involves situations when heat impairs cognitive or motor functions and workers suffer injuries from accidents such as falling off ladders.
It is possible that workers can adapt to excessive heat to reduce the incidence of heat-related work accidents. But still, it is recommended that employers implement greater safety protections for those who work in hot temperatures.
There is also some connection between heat exposure and traumatic injuries, with researchers finding that the risk for traumatic injuries increases in situations involving external heat exposure as well as internal heat generated by physical exertion. Excessive workplace heat can also exacerbate health problems such as asthma, kidney failure and heart disease.
Working in excessive heat can also cause the following:
- Heat stroke. This is the most severe heat-related illness, characterized by the body’s inability to regulate its temperature. Symptoms include high body temperature (above 104°F), confusion, loss of consciousness, and hot skin. It can cause permanent disability or death.
- Heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms include Heavy sweating, weakness, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and fainting.
- Heat rash. This is skin irritation from excessive sweating. It is characterized by red clusters of pimples or small blisters.
- This is a loss of body fluids due to excessive sweating without adequate replacement. Symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and dark-colored urine.
- Reduced cognitive function. High temperatures can impair mental performance. Symptoms include decreased concentration, slower reaction times, and poor decision-making. This can lead to an increased risk of accidents and errors.
- Long-term health issues. Chronic exposure to high temperatures can contribute to long-term health problems such as cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems. Long-term health deterioration and chronic illnesses are also possible.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
The workplace can be a dangerous place, especially as temperatures rise in the summer. Those who work outside need to be mindful of the potential dangers
Injured in the workplace? Contact a Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We have extensive experience helping clients injured on the job to understand their options when it comes to workers’ compensation claims and personal injury claims. To schedule a consultation, call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form.
Source:
businessinsurance.com/article/20240509/NEWS08/912364394/Work-accidents-increase-with-excessive-heat-WCRI-report-
