As the days grow longer, the temperatures begin to rise and summer is in full force. While you may enjoy hanging out by the swimming pool and eating snow cones on a hot day, there are others who have to work out in these hot conditions. High temperatures can be extremely difficult to work in on a daily basis. If you are one of the many who must work in the summer sunshine, you must take special precautions to ensure you don’t end up getting heat stroke or become injured on the job.
Employers are responsible for providing a safe work environment for you and other employees. Not only must you be given proper training on how to stay safe and healthy while working out in the heat, you should have access to equipment and supplies that you need to stay cool in high temperatures.
The body is equipped with a natural thermostat that cools you down when your temperature begins to rise. When you get hot, your body sweats. As the sweat evaporates off your skin, it provides a cooling sensation that keeps your temperature under control. Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself down fast enough to keep up with the rise in body temperature.
When this occurs, you may begin to feel dizzy, confused and light-headed. You may begin sweating profusely as the body attempts to cool off. In extreme cases, you may lose consciousness or go into seizures. In any case, medical attention is needed as soon as possible.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.