Heat stroke is one of the most common dangers faced by outdoor workers.
Summers in St. Louis can be hot and unbearable and if you work in an industry where you are outside all day, it can wreak havoc on your health. If you are outside for an extended amount of time, it is essential to limit your sun exposure and to keep cool.
When conditions start to heat up, making sure you stay hydrated is important so that you don’t suffer from heat stroke or another illness that can keep you out of work. To remain cool, make sure to take these summertime health precautions.
Wear Sunscreen
If you are going to be outdoors all day, don’t forget the sunscreen. Prolonged sun exposure not only increases your risk of developing skin cancer, but it can also lead to severe burns that can have you miserable.
If you have a job where there is a potential that you will get stranded outside, always bring sunscreen with you in the car to make sure that you aren’t left stranded and sunburned.
Stay Hydrated
If you are working outside, it is essential to make sure that you are hydrated. Not only do you want to replenish what you are perspiring by drinking liquids, but you will want to maintain your electrolyte balance. If your electrolytes are off, it can lead to muscle failure and heart problems, especially for those who have pre-existing cardiac conditions.
Choose drinks that will replenish what you lose and stay away from sodas. They can further dehydrate you, and, in extreme cases, that dehydration can lead to a life-threatening illness.
Stay Shaded as Much as Possible
If you can, make sure to stay in the shade when working. If you are working in the middle of the day, try to choose a location that is sheltered, or consider bringing an umbrella or tent if you are going to be working in full-sun. Heat stroke can be a dire condition that can lead to a hospital stay and time away from work.
Work Flex Hours
If you can, as an employer, give your workers the opportunity to work “flex hours.” Provide them the option to work earlier or later in the day, so that they avoid sun exposure during the hottest times. If you allow them to choose off hours, you won’t risk a workers’ compensation claim for illness or lost working hours from them having to take time due to heat-related injuries at work.
If you are in an industry where you are going to be out in the heat this summer, make sure to take precautions so that you don’t end up sick from the hot summer days. Limit your sun exposure as much as possible, and be very conscious of how much you are drinking to replenish that you are sweating so that you don’t end up in the hospital and away from work.
St. Louis Work Injury Attorney
If you are having a hard time getting your sun-related work injury covered by workers’ compensation, contact a St. Louis workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your case.