Anyone who works during the summer months could be impacted by heat and humidity. Employers in North Carolina must take steps to mitigate as many risks as possible to keep their workers safe. One of the key risks to watch out for is dehydration. The body tends to lose water at a faster rate when it is hot and humid outside. Therefore, it is essential for workers to drink plenty of water or any other hydrating beverage.
If possible, employers should schedule tasks to be completed during the early morning or late evening hours. In some cases, it may be best to schedule work at night to avoid both the heat and the sun. Workers are advised to wear clothing that covers their ears and neck and to put sunscreen on any exposed skin. Doing so can prevent sunburn, which can increase a person’s risk for skin cancer.
Workers who are fatigued are at a higher risk of putting themselves or others in danger. This is because it can cause slower reaction time or cause delays in processing information on the job. Fatigue can be an issue for those who have been standing or working in the sun for an extended period of time. Those who are showing signs of fatigue should be allowed to rest in a shady area and drink water.
Individuals who are forced to work in extremely hot or humid conditions could be at risk for heatstroke, skin cancer or other maladies. Those who get hurt or sick at work for any reason may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Through the workers’ compensation system, an individual may receive partial lost wages as well as payment for medical bills related to his or her injury or illness.
