How to work safely in the heat in Pennsylvania
When it comes to workplace injuries, a lot of people think of cuts, broken bones, and similar kinds of problems. Those can all happen, but one of the biggest workplace injury risks for those who work outside is the heat. This is especially true for people who aren’t used to working in the heat, including outdoor workers in the Philadelphia area who only deal with the heat during the summer season. Some people handle heat better than others, but training to help people recognize when they’re getting overheated and what to do about it is important.
What Does Heat Do To the Body?
The reason that heat is so dangerous is that hot outside temperatures raise the body’s internal temperature. People rely on sweating to cool themselves down, but if the sweat they produce isn’t enough to compensate for the heat around them, or if it’s very humid and sweating doesn’t cool them properly, they can overheat quickly. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can both happen in a short period of time, and a person may not realize how overheated they are getting until they start experiencing significant symptoms.
How Can a Person Stay Safe in the Heat?
Staying safe in the heat is vital to a good workplace, and there are some things you can do to protect yourself. If you can stay out of very hot environments that’s the best choice, but the nature of your job may not allow for that. When you have to work in the heat, take frequent breaks and get into the shade. Drink cool (not cold) water and stay hydrated. Sports drinks can also help replace electrolytes and other nutrients that you’re losing from sweating. If your employer provides training and prevention tips for staying safe in the heat, make sure you read and follow those to help protect yourself, as well.
A Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You With Heat-Related Workplace Injuries
Not all employers are as careful as they should be about worker safety in a high-heat environment. With that in mind, you’ll want to make sure you’re compensated fairly if you’re injured on the job because of the temperature. Workers who are forced to work in the heat or who aren’t allowed to take breaks can end up with heatstroke, which can be a serious problem for people of any age or physical condition. Talking to an attorney about your heat-related injuries could help you secure the outcome you need to move forward with your life.
