Lowcountry summers are brutal, and for those working in extreme heat, many days are considered not-so-fun in the sun. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses become very real possibilities as your workload climbs alongside the day’s high temperature. If the heat stroke is a work, you may be seeking workers’ compensation.
If you’ve experienced a heat-related injury at work, you’re likely eligible to file a South Carolina Workers’ Compensation claim. The personal injury attorneys at Hoffman Law Firm are here to help, offering much-needed legal advice as we fight for the benefits you deserve.
Our experienced team of workers’ compensation lawyers is dedicated to defending injured workers here in Charleston, South Carolina – and ensuring your future gets back on track after your workplace injury.
Extreme Heat Risk Factors
Workers in certain industries are more likely to suffer from heat-related injuries than others, including the following:
- Agriculture/farming
- Construction (especially roofing)
- Landscaping
- Mail/package delivery
- Oil and gas well operations
Risk factors exist on an individual level as well, putting workers with these characteristics at a higher risk for heat stroke or other heat sickness:
- Over age 64
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Lifestyle choices (alcohol/drug use, etc)
Types of Heat-Related Injuries at Work
The Greater Charleston Area, including North Charleston, Mount Pleasant and the islands, is home to many hard-working employees. But when a strong work ethic isn’t accompanied by equally strong heat precautions, many suffer from some form of heat sickness or injury.
The most common heat-related conditions in Charleston, SC include:
- Heat rash
- Heat cramps
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat stroke
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
With the risk of heat exhaustion high during the summer, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness – and to recognize them early. Signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Thirst
- Irritability
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness/fatigue
- Elevated body temperature
- Infrequent urination
If the body’s temperature continues to rise rapidly, workers are at risk for heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. Signs of heat stroke include:
- Confusion, slurred speech
- Hot, dry skin or excessive sweating
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Tips for Preventing Heat Exhaustion
To avoid being injured at work due to heat in Charleston, SC, follow these precautions:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Apply sunscreen regularly
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
- Wear a hat and sunglasses
- Take frequent breaks when working in extreme heat
- Avoid the hottest part of the day if possible
- Watch vigilantly for signs of heat sickness
What To Do If You Get Heat Stroke While On-The-Job
Know that Your Safety Comes First
Firstly, if you start feeling symptoms of heat stroke while you’re working, the most important thing is to take care of yourself. Heat stroke is a serious health problem, so get medical help right away. Tell your boss or the person in charge about how you’re feeling.
Get Medical Help
Next, it’s really important to see a doctor as soon as you can. Heat stroke can cause severe issues, so don’t wait to get treated. Call for emergency help or go to a nearby doctor’s office or hospital to get checked out and receive the right treatment.
Tell Your Boss
Thirdly, let your boss know about the heat stroke as soon as you can. Write it down and provide them with details like when it happened, where, and how. This is a significant part of making a claim for workers’ compensation, so ensure they are informed.
Write Down What Happened
Fourthly, take some time to write down exactly what happened – before, during, and after the heat stroke. Include details about your activities, the weather, and any safety measures that were in place. This information will be valuable when you’re making your claim.
Collect Proof
Next, if possible, gather evidence that supports your account. This could include pictures of the location, any safety equipment you used, or the weather conditions on that day.
Get Your Medical Records
Following that, talk to your doctor and request copies of your medical records relate to the heat stroke. These records will demonstrate how you were treated and the condition you were in. They’ll help substantiate your claim for workers’ compensation.
Talk to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Lastly, to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to, consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in workers’ compensation cases like yours. At Hoffman Law Firm, we can provide you with the necessary legal representation for your claim. In case your employer doesn’t comply, we’ll remind them of the law and ensure they provide you with the benefits you deserve under South Carolina Workers Compensation laws.
Need a Charleston Workers’ Compensation Lawyers For Heat Stroke? Call Hoffman Law Firm
If you’re seeking workers’ compensation for heat-related sickness, trust the experienced team at Hoffman Law Firm. We are ready to handle your workers’ compensation claim due to elements like heat stroke. Our personal injury attorneys will handle the workers’ compensation insurance company, fighting for the benefits you deserve – including compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.
Whether at work or at play, stay hydrated and stay safe this summer! But if you’re injured on the job, call the workers’ compensation lawyers at Hoffman Law Firm.
You can call, visit us or message us today to schedule a free consultation.
Plus, you only pay us when we take your case – and win!
HOFFMAN LAW FIRM CASE RESULTS
$3,000,000 RECOVERED IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CASE
Recovered for a worker with under $100,000 in medical bills that was rear-ended by a commercial vehicle.
$1,200,000 RECOVERED IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CASE
A client suffered a brain injury at work. Case was originally denied, however Hoffman Law Firm managed the case and got the accident victim compensated.
$475,000 RECOVERED IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CASE
Recovered for a worker that fell through the roof of a building.
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