Now that the calendar indicates it is June, the temperatures throughout Western Pennsylvania will likely soon heat up. While after a long, cold winter, many who reside in the area probably welcome higher temperatures, for some individuals it can be dangerous. This is particularly true for those who must work outside in extremely hot temperatures.

In an effort to keep those who work outside safe, each year since 2011, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has launched a campaign to educate employers and their workers on how to avoid heat related illnesses that in the worst cases could lead to death. While according to the U.S. Secretary of Labor, employers are supposed to take steps to keep workers safe, the trainings and recommendations provided by OSHA are geared toward workers as well.

As a part of the campaign OSHA has created the following:

• A Web page on heat illness.
• Workplace training curriculum.
• An app that is available free of charge to be used to monitor heat index.
• Other educational materials specifically focusing on heat illness.

There is definitely a need for these measures. According to one statistic, in 2012, 4,120 heat-related worker illnesses were reported. Thirty-one workers lost their lives. Because it is possible for a worker’s body to become acclimated to hot temperatures over a period of time, these illnesses are more likely to strike temporary workers or new employees who are trying to do too much too fast.

While it is most desirable for all heat related illnesses to be eradicated, when they do occur, as is the case with other illnesses that happen as a result of working, it is possible that an ill worker could seek workers’ compensation benefits from his or her employer. In some situations, the assistance of a workers’ compensation lawyer could be beneficial.

Source: ForConstructionPros.com, “OSHA Campaign Highlights Prevention of Heat-Related Illnesses for Contractors,” May 23, 2014