Warmer months mean plenty of outdoor work projects — and job opportunities. But with those opportunities comes a greater risk of suffering work-related injuries. Medical treatment, including physical therapy, can help you cope with the long-term complications of injury or illness from seasonal injuries. But being aware of some common dangers in the summertime work environment can help you avoid them altogether.
Falls and Tripping
Slipping and falling from a dangerous distance is an ongoing hazard of outdoor work. On-the-ground tasks also present their shares of peril. People working in construction or on tree trimming crews risk falls. Landscaping teams, building crews and road workers can trip or slip while on the job.
In some cases, these injuries happen when workplace safety isn’t a priority. But even when precautions are taken every day, there’s a higher probability of injury during the summer months. Worker compensation claim statistics show that strains and sprains from tripping or wrenching muscles and ligaments are common. Broken bones, joint stress, serious wounds and head injuries are also common.
For some of these more serious seasonal work-related injuries, hospital stays and physical therapy may be necessary before the worker can return to the job. Worker compensation issued through the Department of Labor will often cover these necessary treatments.
Heat Exhaustion
Whether you’re working in an office or store with improper cooling or toiling outdoors, heat exhaustion is a possibility. In severe cases, heat stroke can occur. Along with feeling uncomfortably hot, you may begin to experience a headache. Other common symptoms include weakness, dizziness, muscle cramps and mental confusion.
If the situation progresses to heat stroke, you may have clammy skin, or lose consciousness. Having blurred vision or experiencing a seizure can also happen.
The immediate treatment will include moving out of the sun and getting hydrated. If you need medical treatment, hospital staff will administer an evaporative cooling technique. In the long term, a person who’s had heat stroke may benefit from physical therapy and medical follow-up.
Auto Accidents
Your job may entail plenty of driving. These tasks can range from all-day package delivery to commuting to occasional offsite meetings. Of course, winter driving brings plenty of hazards. But few workers are as aware that warmer months also make driving dangerous. More people are on the road for vacations or are out getting errands done in nice weather. In addition, pedestrians and bikers have a habit of darting into traffic.
Take extra precautions if you have to be on the road for your job. Seatbelts are a must, and cell phones should be put away. If you are involved in an auto accident, talk to a worker compensation professional about filing a claim as soon as possible. The claim will enable you to get the medical treatment you need to recover from your injuries.
If you experience any sort of injury on the job during the summer months, know that STI Rehab is here to help. Schedule your complimentary injury assessment at one of our many valley locations and let us help you on your road to recovery.
