Sunstroke, also known as heatstroke, can occur to people of any age or any occupation if activities are performed in the heat of the day. Most at risk are those working outdoors like construction workers and those employed seasonally at amusement parks, at the beach, or as an outdoor guide.
Seasonal summer jobs may pay well and provide a lot of fun that other work but it can prove dangerous if you do not take care of your body in high temperatures. In addition to heatstroke and dehydration, outdoor summer workers can also be at risk of blistering sun burns without proper protection. This excessive exposure to sun can lead to cases of skin cancer.
It is vital to be ready to face the heat of summer at work. Be sure to keep a water bottle close at hand and rehydrate often even if you are not doing a lot of activity. If you have to do manual labor tasks be sure to drink lots of water and get time to rest in the shade to cool down your body temperature. Employers should be accommodating with adequate rest periods.
You also need to be aware of the importance of proper training for seasonal work. Just because you are only working a few months out of the year doesn’t mean you should ignore the safety tips and training provided. Workers who are employed full time may not be as patient at showing you the ropes but in the interest of safety for everyone at work, you should ask questions and be sure you are doing everything properly.
Take care of your body during the high temperatures and bright sun of summer. Remember to protect your eyes with proper UV-protective sunglasses and seek shade whenever possible. Drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest each night to prepare for a new day.
Contact our legal team if you have questions about an injury on the job by calling toll free at 888-799-3918 or using our online contact form.