How to Avoid Heat-related Claims

The late summer months in Jackson, MS can be brutally hot. Business owners should keep the health and safety of workers in mind when performing outdoor work. Preparing employees to work safely while exposed to high temperatures can help employers avoid heat-related workers’ compensation claims.

Preventing Heat-related Claims

The following tips can help keep your employees safe when working in high temperatures:

1. Provide adequate hydration. Make sure your employees always have access to cool drinking water and encourage frequent water breaks.
2. Implement an illness prevention plan. Train employees on working in the heat and make sure to include rest schedules. Employees should be familiar with any emergency protocols and be able to recognize signs of heat illness. Employers should monitor weather forecasts and adjust workloads as much as possible to avoid working in extreme heat.
3. Schedule work strategically. Avoid having employees work during peak heat hours, such as from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rotate tasks among employees to limit exposure, and ensure employees can access shade or air-conditioned rest areas.
4. Provide protective gear. Make sure employees have lightweight, breathable clothing.
5. Accommodate vulnerable workers. Allow extra breaks or modified duties for employees with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or heart disease.
6. Document and communicate policies. Keep any records of safety protocols and training. Make sure employees understand their responsibilities and rights.

Workers’ Compensation and Heat-related Work

A robust workers’ compensation insurance policy is crucial if your employees work in the heat. Consider the following benefits:

• Risk mitigation —Even with adequate precautions in place, heat-related illnesses can and do happen. Workers’ compensation can help financially protect employees if they’re injured or become ill on the job due to heat exposure.
• Medical expenses coverage—Treatment costs and medical expenses may be covered by workers’ compensation for employees who suffer heat-related illnesses.
• Lost wages compensation—Workers’ compensation can help employees maintain financial stability by providing a portion of lost wages due to missing work due to heat-related injuries and illnesses.

Contact Us

Employers must be proactive in protecting their employees from heat-related illness and injury. Robust safety protocols and preparation can help reduce workers’ compensation claims related to heat exposure. The team at FLM Insurance in Jackson, MS can help you with your workers’ compensation insurance needs. Contact us today for a quote or more information.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.