A work injury lawyer in Boca Raton, Florida understands that the type of temperatures that a worker has to do their job in can actually be dangerous and put them at risk. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) discovered that heat stroke is the most serious consequence of working in hot weather and often leads to workers’ compensation claims.
If you face heat stroke and it remains untreated, you may be left with disability or even death. Therefore, if you work outside in the heat, be sure to adhere to the following hot weather work safety tips. If you do suffer heat stroke because of the poor working conditions or other employer negligence, contact a Boca Raton work injury lawyer for assistance.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is considered a serious type of heat injury that can damage the brain and other internal organs. While it typically affects individuals over 50 years old, it can hurt younger individuals as well. Heat stroke often leads to symptoms including:
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Throbbing headache
• Hot, red, and dry skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle weakness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion or disorientation
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
How Can Heat Stroke Be Avoided on Hot Days
Fortunately, heat stroke can be predicted and prevented. By taking the following steps, you can reduce your risk of heat stroke while working in hot weather:
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF and reapplying it every two hours
• Drink plenty of water to help the body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature
• Be cautious when taking certain medication as some may affect the body’s ability to stay hydrated
• Spend time outside during cooler parts of the day like the early morning or evening
How Employers Can Help Prevent Heatstroke
There are a variety of ways employers can help their employees avoid working in dangerous heat and prevent heat stroke. The NIOSH recommends:
• Offering heat stress coaching services
• Assigning new workers lighter work and longer rest periods
• Scheduling more employees for outdoor work
• Reserving outside repair jobs for colder weather
• Providing plenty of water
• Promoting rest periods
What to Do in the Event of a Work-Related Heatstroke
If you suffer from heatstroke at work, understand that you are covered under Florida workers’ compensation laws. Be sure to notify your employer and seek medical attention right away. Then, contact a Boca Raton work injury lawyer from the Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt who can assist you in filing a claim so that you may collect benefits for your medical bills and lost wages.
Let a Boca Raton Work Injury Lawyer Help You
If you suffer from heat stroke while on the job, you should contact a highly skilled work injury lawyer from the Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt. An attorney can evaluate your case and determine what type of benefits you may be entitled to. An attorney can also help if your employer or their worker compensation insurance company contests or tries to deny your claim.
To get the assistance you need, call a Boca Raton work injury lawyer from the Law Offices of Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt today.
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