Workers Compensation Lawyer

With summer just around the corner, many people are looking forward to barbecues and days by the pool. While summer can certainly be a fun season, it can also increase hazards, even in the workplace. 

Here are the most common summertime workplace injuries to look out for.

Dehydration

People who have to work outdoors in the summer months, such as construction workers, may be at risk of dehydration if they are not careful. Common signs of dehydration include dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, muscle cramps and headaches. 

If you work outdoors in the summer, you can take certain steps to prevent dehydration, including drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods, like grapes, watermelon and berries.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke can occur when the body overheats and loses too much water and salt. Workers who suffer heatstroke may suffer flushed skin, rapid breathing, nausea, dizziness and confusion. Those who work outside can avoid heatstroke by wearing loose clothing, drinking water, wearing sunscreen and getting shade when possible.

Car Accidents

Those who have to drive vehicles for work should be especially cautious during the summer. More people travel during the summer, so there will be more vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, the more vehicles there are on the road, the more likely accidents are to occur. That is why workers should drive defensively and be especially aware of their surroundings.

Falls

Believe it or not, falls occur more frequently among workers during the summer months. There are more rainstorms during the summer months and they can make the ground more slippery. People who work outdoors, such as construction workers, may slip on the wet pavement and get injured. 

Workers who become dehydrated are also more susceptible to falls because they may become dizzy. They may lose their balance and fall onto the ground. Falls can result in serious injuries, like broken bones and head injuries.

Sunburns

Workers who spend long hours outdoors also have to worry about sunburns. Severe sunburns can cause skin blistering, swelling, pain, headaches, nausea, chills and dehydration. That is why workers should always wear plenty of sunscreen and protective clothing when working outside.

If you have suffered an injury at work, you may want to schedule a consultation with a workers compensation lawyer, like one from Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy, LLP, to discuss your case in detail.