Depending on type of work and geographical location, workers can be exposed to extreme conditions. In these cases, workers can be forced to endure temperatures that can put them at severe risk of heat stroke and other heat-related conditions. It is important that employees know the risks of heat stroke in order to prevent such incidents from occurring. Heat stroke can be fatal if left untreated, so knowing the symptoms can save your life.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a condition cause by your body overheating. It is usually a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heat stroke is considered severe when body temperature rises to 104° F or above. Symptoms of heat stroke include hallucinations, chills, headache, and slurred speech. Heat stroke requires emergency treatment and is a profoundly serious condition. Neglect of symptoms can lead to damaged brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. The longer treatment is delayed, risk of serious health complications increases or can even be followed by death.
What is the Eligibility Requirement?
As with other workers compensation disputes, it must be proved that the injury was aggravated or directly caused by work duties or workplace conditions. In the case of heat stroke, the worker would have to prove that working outside was the cause of the condition. There are instances where a heat stroke can trigger an underlying health condition such as a heart attack or asthma attack. Even in a situation like this, the employees pre-existing condition is triggered by a work-related duty, therefore it is covered by worker’s compensation insurance.
Heat stroke is a serious risk of working in outdoor conditions, especially during the summer months. It is important that the condition is taken seriously by employees and employers. Proper steps should be taken to protect the safety and wellbeing of the workers. If you believe you have suffered from a heat-related injury, contact Erwin, McCane & Daly to help walk you through the process and get you the compensation you deserve.
