Pennsylvania as a whole may not be known for its sweltering summers, but Harrisburg and other areas in the southeastern part of the commonwealth experience significant heat. In late June, throughout July, and into early August of 2024, the weather in Harrisburg reached the low 90s numerous times. A scorching peak of 100 degrees Fahrenheit was recorded on July 16.
As the temperature rises, so does the danger posed to workers—particularly those who perform manual labor outside. Construction workers, delivery drivers, postal workers, landscapers, roofers, and utility workers are at risk of suffering heat-related illnesses once the weather reaches the mid-80s and above, especially when it’s humid.
The combination of heat and humidity can create stifling conditions for these workers. These conditions are not just uncomfortable; they can be hazardous. Heat-related illnesses occur when the body is unable to properly cool itself, which can be exacerbated by high temperatures, high humidity, and physical exertion. Among these illnesses, heat stroke is the most severe, followed by heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat rash.
How Hot Is Too Hot?
While specific temperature thresholds can vary, heat-related illnesses can begin to set in when the heat index—a measure that considers both air temperature and humidity—reaches 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, the temperature outside may be 83 degrees, but with high relative humidity, the heat index might be 90. At this point, the body's ability to cool itself through sweating diminishes significantly. As temperatures rise above this level, the risk of serious health issues increases.
Heat exposure can lead to a spectrum of illnesses, varying in severity and symptoms:
- Heat Stroke: This is the most serious form of heat-related illness and is considered a medical emergency. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature regulation fails, leading to a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher. Symptoms include confusion, altered mental states, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, and absence of sweating despite the heat. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent permanent damage or death.
- Heat Exhaustion: Before heat stroke, there is often heat exhaustion, which can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. It is marked by heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, fast but weak pulse, and fainting. It’s important to treat heat exhaustion promptly by moving to a cooler environment and hydrating with water or sports drinks to prevent it from escalating to heat stroke.
- Heat Cramps: These are muscle spasms that typically occur in the abdomen, arms, or legs and are often a result of heavy sweating during intense physical activity. Heat cramps can be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Drinking water and having a snack can help reduce cramps as fluids and electrolytes are replenished. If cramps persist for longer than an hour, medical attention should be sought.
- Heat Syncope: Also known as heat-induced dizziness or fainting, this occurs from low blood pressure when heat causes blood vessels to expand, and body fluids move into the legs due to gravity. Symptoms include light-headedness or fainting, especially when standing quickly from a sitting or lying position. Moving to a cool area and lying down is the immediate treatment.
Employers should provide plenty of rest (in the shade or air conditioning) and water breaks for employees who work in the heat, and they should ensure that all employees are educated on symptoms of heat-related illness and what to do if they spot these. Pennsylvania workers who suffer harm in hot weather can seek workers’ compensation or potentially third-party personal injury lawsuits to get the treatment and support they need.
What You Can Do
Suffering from a heat-related illness at work can be a serious and disorienting experience, but knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in your recovery and in protecting your rights. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself affected by a heat-related condition while on the job:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first priority is your health. Whether it's heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or any other heat-related condition, prompt medical treatment is crucial. This not only ensures your safety but also provides essential documentation should you need to file a workers' compensation claim.
Report the Incident
Inform your supervisor or workplace safety officer about the incident as soon as possible. Officially reporting the illness helps to formalize the occurrence and is a necessary step in the workers' compensation process. This also helps the workplace to identify and mitigate any ongoing risks to you and your coworkers.
Document Your Experience
Keep copies of your report to your employer, medical records, and a personal record of the event and your symptoms. Note the conditions you were working under, the symptoms you experienced, and any steps you took in response to the illness. Keeping detailed records can help support your workers’ comp claim or personal injury lawsuit.
Follow Medical Advice
Adhering to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider is critical for your recovery. This also demonstrates your commitment to mitigating the illness’s impact, which is an important aspect of the workers' compensation process.
Contact an Attorney
If you’re facing difficulties with your claim or need guidance on your legal rights and options, consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney can be invaluable. An experienced lawyer can provide the necessary advice and representation to seek all the benefits you're entitled to under the law.
As temperatures continue to rise in Harrisburg, awareness and proactive measures are key to preventing heat-related injuries at work. Employers must ensure that safety protocols are in place and adhered to. Remember, staying informed and prepared is the best defense against the heat.
For more information and a free review of your case, contact a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney at Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC: (888) 498-3023.