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Heat can be a real danger for workers during the summer, especially those who work outdoors. Temperatures in our area are still in the 90's. So, for your employees – especially those who work outdoors  --  summer heat is not only uncomfortable,  it can be down right dangerous.

This season's hot and hazardous weather has even prompted U.S. Labor Secretary to issue a warning to employers about protecting their workers as a record heat wave swept much of the nation last month.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has also recognized the threat to workers and has rolled out a national outreach initiative to educate workers and employers about the health hazards of working outdoors in the heat and outlining steps needed to recognize and prevent heat illnesses.  The OSHA website includes segments containing resources, educational material and much more for your use as an employer to raise the awareness of your workforce regarding the dangers and how to cope with the extreme heat this summer. 

As an employer, you want to protect your employees against possible injury and danger; so you will want to educate them to avoid heat-related illness. OSHA reports that, each year, thousands of outdoor workers encounter heat illness as they do their jobs, and it  often manifests as heat exhaustion. Heat Stroke can quick follow heat exhaustion if it is not handled promptly. Heat stroke was responsible for the death of 30 workers last year.

Check out this video in which OSHA boss, David Michaels warns workers that  "Drinking water often, taking breaks, and limiting time in the heat are simple, effective ways to prevent heat illness."

As a further resource for employers and employees, OSHA has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide weather service alerts. These alerts will include worker safety precautions and will be available when heat alerts are issued across the U.S. You will also find pertinent worker safety information on NOAA’s Heat Watch Web page.

As a responsible employer, you want to be sure your employees are protected in your workplace and that, should illness or injury occur, you have the proper insurance coverage to assist with any claims.  In the face of threats to your employees’ health and safety such as the environmental danger from extreme heat, we here at the Boizelle Insurance Partnership suggest that you take a moment to review your company’s insurance package (Workers' Compensation and other policies) to be prepared before you need it.  We welcome your questions and would be glad to help you review your insurance policy at your convenience.