Ohio summers can be beautiful, but they can also be dangerous for workers who spend long hours outdoors or in hot indoor environments.  

During the year between my first and second year of law school the economy was a mess so rather than work at a law firm like most of my classmates, I ended up working at driving range doing maintenance and helping build a golf course. So I know what it is like to need to beat the heat while working hard. 

Construction workers, roofers, landscapers, warehouse employees, factory workers, delivery drivers, and many others face increased risks when temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond.

Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and may include:

   Dehydration

   Heat exhaustion

   Heat stroke

   Dizziness and fainting

   Reduced concentration, increasing the risk of workplace accidents

And having had some of these and also helping workers who have suffered through some of these, we would rather help you avoid them.

The best defense is preparation. Employers and employees can work together to reduce heat-related risks by:

✔  Drinking plenty of water throughout the day

✔  Taking regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas

✔  Wearing appropriate clothing and protective equipment

✔  Watching for signs of heat illness in coworkers

✔  Adjusting work schedules when possible during extreme heat

One overlooked danger of extreme temperatures is that heat can affect judgment, reaction time, and concentration. Even workers who never experience heat illness may be more likely to suffer slips, trips, falls, or equipment-related accidents when working in extreme conditions.

At The Law Offices of Kurt M. Young, LLC, we encourage every Ohio employer and worker to take heat safety seriously. A few simple precautions can help prevent serious injuries and ensure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.

Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay safe, Ohio.

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