The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that more workers are injured in June, July, and August than during any other time of the year. In fact, one report found that nearly 3,300 workers are injured each day in June. Most of these accidents are the result of a lack of oversight and a lack of enforcement of critical safety procedures and OSHA safety standards.
According to statistics, most workplace injuries are musculoskeletal, affecting the spine, back, and legs. However, heat exposure is another big source of injury in the summer, especially in sunny and humid states like Texas. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about 18 people across the country died on the job from heat exposure in 2014. Additionally, more than 2,600 workers became ill due to overexposure to heat. These illnesses and deaths are almost always preventable.
Preventing Heatstroke On the Job
If you work outdoors, there are certain precautions you should take to minimize your risk of suffering a heat-related illness. Consider the following:
- Stay hydrated. OSHA encourages employers to provide rehydration breaks every 15 minutes and a cool place to rest.
- Know the signs. Workers should be educated on the symptoms of heat exhaustion and how to identify those symptoms in others.
- Take frequent breaks. If you are new to an outdoor job, you should be provided with frequent breaks until you acclimate to working in the heat and humidity, especially if your job requires you to wear heavy clothing.
If you or someone you know has been injured on the job this summer, you may have legal recourse and may be entitled to compensation. You have a right to contact an attorney who can examine your claim and pursue all applicable benefits through Texas’ workers’ compensation system.
The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC is committed to protecting the rights of injured workers in Austin. Our skilled Austin workers’ compensation lawyers are prepared to do what it takes to help you seek justice after a preventable accident. To speak to an attorney about your workplace accident and legal options, please fill out an online consultation form and we will be in touch with you soon. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.
