Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Summer heat and workplace illness

On behalf of Godwin and Rubin posted in Workplace Illness on Friday, June 29, 2018.

Summer is here and if June has been an example of how the temperatures will go, it is likely to be a hot one in California. While no one can prevent a workplace illness from ever happening, it is possible to reduce the chances of being afflicted with a heat-related malady. Being aware of the symptoms can help lessen the risk of getting an illness brought about by excessive heat exposure.

Heat-related illness can manifest in many different ways. Dehydration can cause severe muscle cramps. Drinking liquids with electrolytes can help to keep a person hydrated. Excessive heat exposure can also cause circulatory problems as blood pools to the extremities to try to cool them and this can cause a lack of blood flow to the brain, causing a person to faint. Occasional breaks to a cooler area can reduce the risk of this happening.

Heat stroke can be a more serious problem and requires prompt attention. If a person is hot but not sweating and appears confused, additional help may be required. Get the person to lie down in a cool area and call for help.

Being aware of the dangers of exposure to excessive heat is important for everyone but particularly for those who work for extended hours outside or in other warm environments in California. Regardless of the precautions taken, a workplace illness may still occur. If a person contracts an illness due to overexposure to heat, he or she may want to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can inform him or her of one’s rights under the law and offer advise him on available options.