OSHA Tips for Preventing Heat Illness When Working Outdoors
As record heat continues across much of Oklahoma, it is important for those who work outdoors, such as construction workers, to take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a nationwide outreach for designed to educate laborers and employers about heat illnesses.
OSHA warns that those who work in hot, humid conditions are at risk of suffering heat illness. The risk is greater for those doing strenuous jobs or using bulky protective clothing, like many construction workers must do. Heat illnesses occur because the temperature of the body has risen too much and the body’s own systems are no longer able to bring the temperature back down. Heat-related problems range from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is deadly. Anyone suspected of suffering from heat stroke should be given medical attention immediately. To help prevent heat illnesses, workers should remember three key factors: water, rest, and shade. Outdoor workers should drink water every 15 minutes, even if they are not thirsty and take breaks in a well-ventilated, shady area. Workers and employers should know the signs of heat illnesses and have an emergency plan in place.
It is the responsibility of employers to take adequate safety precautions for their employees. In hot weather, that means that construction workers and other outdoor laborers have sufficient access to water and enough time to rest out of the sun. If you or a loved one has suffered an accident or injury due to the negligence of your employer, call the Oklahoma construction accident attorneys at The Maples Law Firm. Our lawyers will protect your legal rights and get you the best possible outcome for your case. Call our law offices today at (405) 705-5050 to get started.