As the summer months bring the heat, construction workers are at risk of developing a serious heat-related illness. This article discusses ways to prevent construction injuries caused by the heat. Contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston construction attorney at 713.921.4171 or 800.232.3711, if you have been injured.

Preventing Texas Construction Injuries Caused by Heat

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With summer in full force, it is important that certain safety precautions are taken to protect construction workers in the heat. The summer months in Texas can bring high temperatures combined with increased humidity. This combination can be dangerous for those who work outside.

As a Texas construction worker, you most likely work in hot environments for extended periods of time. If your body becomes too hot and has trouble cooling down, you are at risk of developing a heat-induced illness, which can be fatal. According to acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Jordan Barab, "Working in extreme temperatures is not only uncomfortable, it can be life-threatening. As we move into the summer months, it is important for workers and their employers to minimize the chances of heat-induced illnesses, and imperative that they recognize the signs of heat stress and take proper precautions to reduce the chances of illness or death."

Hot weather, humidity, physical exertion and dehydration can all cause heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, weakness and giddiness. When a worker is suffering from heat exhaustion, he or she may faint or collapse.

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-induced illness and can be fatal. The main symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, irrational behavior, loss of consciousness, convulsions, hot, dry skin and abnormally high body temperature. Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency and treatment should be pursued immediately.

There are things that employers can do to help minimize the risk of construction injuries caused by the heat. Some of the suggestions listed by OSHA include providing cool water, reducing physical demands, providing air-conditioned areas, rescheduling hot jobs for a cooler part of the day and monitoring workers for signs of a heat-induced illness.

If you have been injured in a Texas construction accident or by some form of negligence, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston construction attorney. Call 713.921.4171 or 800.232.3711 today.


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