The summer weather is here and most of us are happy to be spending more time outside. But as we move to more activity outside, we need to be prepared for the summer heat. Employers can reduce workers’ compensation claims by helping employees understand the need to be safe while working outside. Workers Compensation Insurance is designed to help companies pay these benefits. As a protection for employees, most states require that employers carry some form of Workers Compensation Insurance. Workers Compensation Insurance is not health insurance. Workers Compensation is designed specifically for injuries sustained on the job.
What is Heat Stress?
Heat stress is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature and cool itself through sweating. When the body gets hot, the heart pumps faster, blood is diverted from internal organs to the skin, breathing rate increases, and sweating increases, all in an attempt to transfer more heat to the outside air and cool the skin by the evaporation of sweat.
Some of the Signs of Heat Stress
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness/Light-Headedness
- Collapse, staggering, or sluggish feeling
- Profuse sweating
- Irritability
- Diarrhea
- Chills
- Increase in core body temperature, usually above 104°F/40°C rectal temperature
- Pale complexion
How To Keep Cool
- Stay hydrated
- Rest in the shade to cool down
- Wear light-colored clothing
- During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour
- Limit activity during the afternoon
- Learn the signs of heat illness and what to do in an emergency
- Keep an eye on family members, especially babies and the elderly
- Wear a hat
- Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelters in your area
Worthington Insurance specializing in competitive auto, home, contractor and business insurance as well as insurance in Philadelphia, Yardley, Morrisville, Langhorne, Newtown, Bensalem, Levittown, Bucks County and surrounding areas in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.