Be Prepared to Face the Summer Heat

South Carolina summers bring with them extreme heat and extreme humidity. If you’re one of the many people in South Carolina who work outdoors, you know exactly how demanding the South Carolina summer can be.

As you might imagine, if you work outdoors you’re at higher risk for heat-related health problems, but what you might not know is that heat-related illnesses are in fact covered by workers’ compensation. If you’re involved in heavy physical labor, then you’re most prone to occupational diseases caused by working in high temperatures.

Heat related illnesses to watch out for are:

•   Heatstroke
•   Heat exhaustion
•   Heat cramps
•   Heat rash

If you feel the symptoms of any of these conditions coming on while at work, take a break immediately. Find a cool, shady area to rest and rehydrate. If the symptoms are severe (such as seizures), call 911 immediately.

Even if you don’t think you’re experiencing these symptoms, if you work outdoors in high temperatures, be sure that you’re taking frequent breaks either indoors or in the shade—give yourself time away from the sun. Drink plenty of water to ensure that you’re staying hydrated and cool. Both of these measures can help prevent dehydration and heat related illnesses such as heatstroke. If you develop a heat-related illness, seek immediate medical treatment.

Heat-related illnesses can be very serious, and are often covered by workers’ comp if you’ve been affected by a heat-related illness be sure to contact an attorney to find out if you qualify for workers’ compensation.