There’s no question that the summer months are extremely busy for anyone working in the construction industry. Unfortunately, this time of year presents many new hazards and risks for construction workers. Many of these risks are caused by extreme temperatures – especially in Florida.
While prevention is key in these situations, if you do experience an injury or illness while on the job, you have rights, at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., we will help protect your rights and ensure you have the benefits you are entitled to.
Common Issues for Construction Workers During the Summer
A common danger that many construction workers encounter during the summer months is being exposed to extremely high temperatures. The risk of heat-related illnesses is especially high for new workers or those who have taken some time off work.
While the ability the body has to withstand heat will improve with repeated and frequent exposure, the tolerance will fade quickly after several days of not being in the heat. Because of this, workers are prone to various heat-related illnesses. Some of the most common that are seen include:
Heat Stroke
Common symptoms of heat stroke include body temperatures that reach over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, red, hot skin, increased heart rate, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and a headache.
Rashes
The symptoms of a heat rash include clusters of small blisters that look like pimples. They commonly appear on the groin, chest, neck, and creases of the elbow.
Cramps
The symptoms of heat-caused cramps include excessive sweating, muscle pain, and muscle spasms.
Heat Exhaustion
The symptoms of heat exhaustion include cold and pale skin, increased heart rate, excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, and the possibility of losing consciousness.
Dehydration
If construction workers aren’t drinking a sufficient amount of water, they may become dehydrated. This can result in serious injuries and illnesses. Some of the most common symptoms of dehydration to watch for include diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive sweating.
Sunburn
While some sunburns are mild and only require a bit of time to heal, others – especially ones that outdoor workers experience during the summer – can be much more severe and dangerous. Common warning signs related to more serious cases of sunburn include red and painful skin and, in some cases, large, painful blisters.
Other Dangers That Increase During the Summer Months
In some cases, year-round dangers and hazards increase in the summer months, too. One reason for this is because, during the summer, construction workers are working more and longer hours. Examples of year-round hazards that commonly increase for construction workers during the summer months include:
Falls
No matter the season, falls are the top cause of fatalities for construction workers. If workers are not trained properly or if they do not have the right safety gear, they are much more likely to experience a fall while on the job.
Vehicle Accidents
Many construction workers are working on highways and other high-traffic areas. Because of this, during the summer, there may be a higher risk of being in an accident because there are more people on the road.
Crushed By Accidents
With more construction work and projects being taken on, equipment maintenance often falls by the wayside. This increases the risk of defective or malfunctioning equipment, which can lead to deadly crushed by accidents.
The Important Role Construction Site Managers Have to Ensure Worker Safety
It’s worth noting that of all the injuries that were mentioned above, most are preventable. It’s necessary for construction site managers to ensure their workers are safe and that accidents are prevented.
If a manager fails to provide a safe working environment or ensure that their workers receive adequate breaks from the heat, then they may be considered liable for the injuries that workers experience.
Our Legal Team Can Help with Your Construction Injury Claim
If you are injured on the job, you have rights. One right is to recover workers’ compensation benefits. At Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., we can gather evidence in your case and help ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Each case is unique, and we will put our resources and expertise to work for you to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
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