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While the winter months are dragging on across portions of the Midwest and Northeast in the United States, the South and Southwest are preparing for what is expected to be an even hotter summer than last year. The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will again be placing an emphasis on the dangers of heat-related illness. OSHA plans to first and foremost educate employers and employees, but will then target the most likely offenders that are putting workers at risk. OSHA’s offices in California launched the 2013 Heat Illness Prevention Program in April.
“California is a better place to work because of our standard and partnership with employers and labor to protect all outdoor workers from heat illness,” said Director of the Department of Industrial Relations Christine Baker. “As we enter this year’s heat season, it is important we continue our efforts to address heat illness prevention at outdoor work sites.”
Heat illness can also affect indoor workers, particularly in the summer months. Employers must ensure that workers are well hydrated and receive time to rest during the day. If the workers are outside they need to have shaded areas provided to sit and rest.
Have you sustained an injury or illness from working in hot conditions? You may be eligible to receive workers comp. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
Tip of the week: The rate of heat-related deaths among crop workers has nearly doubled between 1992 and 2006.
Larrimer & Larrimer, LLC—Columbus Workers Comp Attorneys