Signs of Heat Exhaustion – Missouri Workers Comp Attorney

The most common symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating, thirst, headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, and elevated body temperature.

An estimated 32 million Americans spend much of their day working outside. From construction workers, farmers, and landscapers to park rangers and firefighters, these individuals are exposed to the harsh conditions of the great outdoors, including sweltering heat in the summer months. Unfortunately, working under these conditions can be dangerous and lead to heat exhaustion, seriously affecting your health and livelihood.

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This article will discuss the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion, how to reduce the risk, and what to do if you or a coworker experiences heat exhaustion while on the job. We’ll also highlight workers’ rights and how to seek compensation if necessary.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Common signs of heat exhaustion include:

• Profuse sweating
• Thirst
• Pale skin
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Decreased urine output
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Elevated body temperature
• Fainting

It’s important to recognize these signs early on and act quickly to cool down and rehydrate. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which can be fatal.

Reducing the Risk of Heat Exhaustion

Take the following precautions to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion:

Dress for Success: When the sun is beating down, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing is essential. This will keep you cool and comfortable and allow your skin to breathe. Opt for light-colored clothes as they tend to reflect the sun’s rays.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Ensure you drink water frequently, even when not thirsty. Drinking water will help keep your body cool and prevent dehydration. It’s also essential to avoid drinking caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate you.

Block Out the Sun: Use an umbrella or a shade tent to create a cool and comfortable working environment. Schedule tasks for early mornings or later in the day to avoid the midday heat, if possible.

Protect Your Skin: Sunscreen is a must when working outdoors. Wear and reapply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more throughout the day. A wide-brimmed hat will also help protect your face and neck from the sun’s rays.

Take Regular Breaks: Working in the heat can be exhausting, so regular breaks are essential to cool off. Find a shaded area to rest in and take a few minutes to relax and rehydrate. A cooling towel around your neck can also keep you cool.

Heat Exhaustion at Work

Employees have the right to a safe working environment, including being protected from the risks of working in hot weather. If you end up suffering from heat exhaustion while working outdoors, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. 

At the Law Office of James M. Hoffman, we understand how complex pursuing a workers’ comp claim can be, and we’re here to help you navigate the process and ensure that you get the support and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to speak with a Missouri workers comp attorney with over 30 years of experience.