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What Workers Need to Know About Hypothermia and Workers’ Comp

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At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, we help injured workers get the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about hypothermia and your rights under workers’ comp laws.

Working in cold conditions is a reality for many Missouri workers, from construction workers and utility crews to agricultural workers and delivery drivers. While employers are responsible for providing safe working conditions, cold-weather injuries like hypothermia remain a severe risk.

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Understanding Hypothermia in the Workplace

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing your body temperature to drop below 95°F (35°C). This dangerous condition can develop surprisingly quickly, especially when working in cold, wet, or windy conditions.

Common Risk Factors for Workplace Hypothermia:

  • Working outdoors in cold temperatures
  • Exposure to rain, snow, or cold water
  • Working in refrigerated environments
  • Inadequate protective clothing
  • Physical exhaustion
  • Poor physical condition or certain medical conditions
  • Taking certain medications

Warning Signs of Hypothermia

Early recognition of hypothermia symptoms is crucial. Workers should watch for:

  • Shivering (though this may stop as hypothermia worsens)
  • Slurred speech or mumbling
  • Slow, shallow breathing
  • Weak pulse
  • Clumsiness or lack of coordination
  • Drowsiness or very low energy
  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Loss of consciousness

Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim for Hypothermia

To protect your rights:

  1. Report any symptoms immediately to your supervisor
  2. Seek medical attention right away
  3. Document the conditions that led to your hypothermia
  4. Keep records of all medical treatment
  5. Note any witnesses who can verify the working conditions
  6. Contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney

When to Seek Legal Help

Consider consulting a workers’ compensation attorney if:

  • Your claim is denied
  • You’re not receiving proper medical care
  • Your benefits are delayed or insufficient
  • You face retaliation for filing a claim
  • You have lasting health effects from hypothermia
  • Your employer disputes the work-related nature of your condition

How the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann Can Help

If you’ve suffered from hypothermia on the job, filing a workers’ compensation claim can feel overwhelming—especially if your claim is denied or delayed. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, we have over 30 years of experience helping injured workers in Missouri navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation laws.

We’ll fight to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve, including coverage for medical treatment, lost wages, and long-term disability if necessary. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights so you can focus on recovery.

Updated: November 27, 2024
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