LWCC Offers Tips to Avoid Heat-Related Injuries at Work

Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Corporation (LWCC), as part of its ongoing summer safety campaign, is reminding employers and employees to take every precaution to avoid these injuries, or possibly death, by following a few simple guidelines when working under extreme heat conditions.

LWCC says as daily summertime temperatures soar into the high 90s with equally high amounts of humidity, it is important for employers to educate all employees – particularly those working outdoors – about the dangers of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and the more life-threatening heatstroke.

“Many employers often fail to recognize how deadly the combination of extreme heat and humidity can be to workers, and what steps need to be taken to protect them,” said Mike Dileo, LWCC vice president of operations, in a company announcement. “That is why we are stressing preventive measures such as drinking ample fluids, taking frequent breaks in a cool or shaded area, cutting down on caffeine and encouraging the wearing of light-colored clothes that reflect the heat instead of absorbing it.”

Additionally, heat-related injuries do not occur only in summer. They also occur year-round for workers in laundries, bakeries, restaurant kitchens and warehouses, despite efforts to keep these areas cool with air conditioners, fans and open windows. Add the intense heat of the summer months, and working under these conditions can become particularly dangerous.

Employers and employees seeking detailed information on the symptoms and treatment of heat-related illnesses, as well as an at-a-glance heat index chart, can visit www.lwcc.com.

“For employees who work outdoors, such as construction workers, roofers, farmers and landscapers, the extreme summer temperatures can be brutal. Making a few simple workplace adjustments, as well as providing proper training, can go a long way in preventing heat-related injuries, saving lost workdays and possibly saving lives,” said Dileo.

Source: LWCC