Protecting Workers in Hot Environments

As temperatures rise during the summer months, many workers face increased risks of heat-related illnesses and injuries while on the job. But what if you get injured because your company didn’t protect you? What if they refuse to cover the costs? Here’s what you should know about heat injuries and workers’ comp.

Understanding Heat-Related Injuries

Working in hot environments, especially without adequate safeguards, can lead to a range of heat-related injuries and illnesses. These can include:

  • heat exhaustion
  • heat stroke
  • heat cramps
  • dehydration
  • dangerous sunburn
  • and more.

Outdoor workplaces like construction sites, factories, warehouses, and agriculture are particularly vulnerable to heat-related risks.

Employers have a responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of their workers, and this includes taking measures to prevent and address on-the-job heat injuries.

The Employer’s Responsibilities

Your employer has a legal obligation to ensure a safe working environment, even and especially in high-temperature conditions. Here are some essential steps employers should take to prevent on-the-job heat injuries:

Risk Assessment

Firstly, employers should always know any potential heat hazards in the workplace. This includes evaluating temperature levels, humidity, the duration of the employees’ exposure to the heat, and the physical demands of the job.

Training and Education

Secondly, adequate training programs should be implemented to educate employees about the risks of heat-related illnesses. If you work in heat on a regular basis, you should know how to prevent injury and recognize early signs of distress. This training could help save your life and the lives of others.

Hydration and Breaks

In addition, employers should provide access to cool water, encourage frequent hydration breaks, and establish shaded rest areas to help employees regulate their body temperature and prevent dehydration.

Proper Building and Technology

The right engineering can save lives. This includes ventilation systems, air conditioning, and insulation that help reduce heat stress in the workplace.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE isn’t just for healthcare workers. When appropriate, employers should provide workers with PPE like cooling vests or heat-reflective clothing, which are designed to mitigate heat-related risks.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Heat Injuries

Workers’ compensation is a crucial safety net for workers who sustain injuries or illnesses while on the job, including those related to heat exposure. It doesn’t matter who was at fault: if you get injured on the job, your workers’ comp should cover the cost, including medical expenses and wage replacement.

Medical Expenses

Workers’ compensation covers the cost of medical treatment. That means:

  • hospitalization
  • medication
  • rehabilitation
  • and any therapy needed to recover from heat-related injuries.

Wage Replacement

If you can’t work due to a heat-related injury, workers’ compensation can provide wage replacement benefits. This benefit is typically a portion of your regular earnings.

In rare, severe cases where heat-related injuries lead to temporary or permanent disability, workers’ compensation can provide disability benefits to help compensate for your losses. But sometimes you need long-term disability, and our attorneys also help with the SSDI process.

A Memphis Lawyer for On-the-Job Heat Injuries and Workers’ Comp

When it comes to navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims, choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference.

Our team of experienced workers’ compensation lawyers has a proven track record of success in handling a wide range of cases. We’ve seen it all – and we can help you, too.

We provide personalized attention, strategy, and unwavering support throughout the entire legal process. With our in-depth knowledge of workers’ compensation laws, strong negotiation skills, and courtroom expertise, we’re committed to maximizing your benefits and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

To get started, contact us today for a free appointment.