Hot Weather Work Safety: Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

During these dog days of summer here in Minnesota, outdoor workers need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat stress and how to treat it. Heat stress occurs when a worker's body cannot cool down quickly enough.  

Heat exhaustion can be dangerous and heat stroke can be fatal.  


The symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke include:

If someone is suffering heat exhaustion or heat stroke, the following steps should be taken: 

You can take steps to avoid heat stress injuries such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, including:

• Learning the signs and symptoms of heat stress. 
• Drinking plenty of water or electrolyte drinks. 
• Avoiding heavy work during the hottest parts of the day. 
• Slowing down the pace of work and taking more breaks. 
• Wearing light-weight, loose-fitting, light-colored, breathable clothing and a hat. 
• Taking regular breaks in the shade or in a cool area. 
• Avoiding alcoholic beverages or drinks with caffeine before or during work. 
• Keeping an eye on co-workers for symptoms of heat stress. 
• If you start to feel ill, stop what you’re doing immediately, and take steps to cool down. Tell your supervisor. 

If you’ve sustained a heat-related injury on the job in Minnesota that required medical attention, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. To learn more about your rights, call Meuser & Associate at 877-746-5680 or click here to send us an email.

As Temperatures Rise, Watch Out for Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

While we’ve had a relatively cool summer this year, the forecast suggests that temperatures are going to be hotter in August.

People who work outdoors like construction workers, builders, road workers, utility workers, police officers, maintenance workers, landscapers, city workers, and heavy equipment operators need to be especially wary of heat-related work injuries.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include a fever of 104 degrees or less, thirst, fainting, cool and clammy skin, weakness, aching muscles, sweating, slow heartbeat and dizziness. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is important to rest, get out of the sun, cool off, and re-hydrate.

Heat stroke is a life threatening condition when heat exhaustion goes untreated or unrelieved. Heat stroke takes place when the body temperature rises and the cooling system of the body stops working. Symptoms of heat stroke involve shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and rapid heart beat.

If you require medical attention after suffering heat exhaustion or heat stroke on the job, your medical expenses are most likely covered by workers’ compensation. If you miss work due to a heat injury, you may also be entitled to wage loss benefits.

Prevention is the best cure when it comes to heat exhaustion and heat stoke during these hot summer months. Avoid excessively strenuously activity when temperatures go up, take frequent rest breaks, and keep hydrated.

If you’ve suffered a heat-related work injury and have questions about your workers’ compensation rights, contact Meuser & Associates at 877-746-5680 or click here to send us an email to schedule a free consultation.

Visit Minnesota Workers' Compensation and Personal Injury Law Firm, Meuser & Associates, P.A., at MeuserLaw.com