Summer brings along scorching temperatures and longer days. While most employees have the luxury of sitting in an air conditioned office, there are hundreds of workers that are outside during Iowa summers. For those employees working long days outside, there is a higher risk for heat stroke. Employees that get heat stroke may be wondering if their condition qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits, especially since their job required them to work outside.
Understanding EligibilityWorkers’ compensation covers work-related injuries. In order for an injury to be classified as “work-related,” the employee must have an injury that was aggravated or directly caused by work duties or workplace conditions. For heat stroke, an employee would need to show proof that having to work outside for their job led to the condition. Also, there are instances where employees can suffer from heart attacks related to heat exposure. Since obese and overweight employees are at higher risk for heat stroke, an employer will try to argue that the heat stroke was caused by a pre-existing condition. Nevertheless, the employee’s pre-existing condition is still aggravated by work-related duties, so it is covered by workers’ compensation insurance.
Workers’ Compensation Protects EmployeesHeat stroke is a common injury among employees that work outside during the summer. The state has multiple laws and regulations in place to help avoid dangerous conditions, and it requires employers to take steps to protect their employees from heat stroke or heat-related injuries. Just some things an employer should do to protect their employees include:
- Providing adequate amounts of water on-site to ensure employees stay hydrated while working outdoors. OSHA recommends that one quart of water is supplied per employee per hour. Employers should encourage employees to take multiple breaks and drink water, giving them enough time to have a quart of water per hour.
- Employers should also have a heat safety training and protocol plan in place for employees working outdoors. This should teach employees how to recognize the early signs of heat stroke and teach them methods for preventing it.