Whether indoors or outdoors, many Illinois workers must contend with the elements. A hot summer day could make outdoor work challenging or even dangerous. Professionals constructing or renovating a building may find that the lack of air conditioning makes a shift brutal. Heat strokes and other health risks could happen, so workers must be mindful of proper safety steps.
Cautions about working in the heat
In 2018, more than 3,900 workers had to take time off due to heat-related illnesses. Some workers suffered fatal reactions after succumbing to the heat. Such information should lead workers and managers to employ caution when the temperature trends up.
Some safety steps are not challenging to employ. Hydration is essential, so sipping an appropriate amount of water throughout the workday is advisable. Taking breaks is equally necessary as working through the heat could lead to an unfortunate reaction. Some workers may try to force their way through dehydration and other issues to get a job done, but doing so might prove regrettable.
Managers and their duties
Employers should provide safety training to workers and explain helpful ways to avoid succumbing to the heat. Managers may also take steps to ensure proper ventilation and access to fans, if possible.
Supervisors may keep an eye out for someone who appears ill. A worker who appears on the verge of passing out may be in bad shape. If a worker chooses to keep working despite problems with the heat, a manager may step in to deal with the situation.
Thankfully, workers’ comp remains a potential financial benefit to those who miss work for health-related reasons. Illinois is a no-fault state, which means employer negligence is not necessary to file a claim.
Hiring an attorney might be worthwhile since not all workers’ compensation cases go smoothly. An attorney may address denials and challenges to help a worker receive compensation for an illness or injury.