Although much of the nation has been slammed with snow and freezing temperatures this winter, the last several summers have also been extreme. Here in California, a large number of workers suffer heat-related injuries every summer, and occasionally those injuries actually result in death.
California has more agricultural workers than any other state, and heat illness among agricultural workers happens at a rate three times higher than all of California’s other industries combined. While heat-related incidents have dropped in recent years as most employers are now in compliance with heat illness regulations, non-compliance is costly; non-compliant California businesses spent more than $500,000 dollars on heat-related injuries in 2011. Worse yet, while it’s rare, heat-related injuries can be deadly. In 2005, a record twelve people died from heat-related illnesses caused by workplace conditions.
The incentive for employers to take adequate measures is growing. In 2012, California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a measure that would have required agricultural employers to provide access to water within ten feet of all employees. Employers violating shade and water requirements could have been charged with criminal offenses had the measure not been vetoed. Similar measures to improve agricultural working conditions are certain to be proposed in upcoming sessions of the California State Assembly.
What Workers Should Know About Heat Illness and Compensation
Heat-related injuries are a serious concern for workers in California, especially during warmer months or in outdoor and high-temperature work environments. Employers are expected to prepare heat illness prevention plans to help keep employees safe and reduce the risk of preventable injuries.
If you suffer a workplace injury caused by heat exposure that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help cover medical treatment and lost wages while you recover.
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the claims process. In more complex situations, legal representation may be necessary to ensure your claim is properly handled and your benefits are protected.
If you’ve been injured on the job due to heat exposure or any other condition, contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.