Outdoor workers in California during the summer months are at an increased risk of sun-related injuries. Common ailments include sunburn, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other conditions caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
If your job requires you to work outdoors in the California summer, keep reading to learn about your employer’s responsibilities for preventing workplace injuries and three common sun-related injuries that can harm your health.
Sun-related Injuries
Three of the most common sun-related injuries are:
- Sunburn: This is the most common sun-related injury, characterized by redness, pain, swelling, and, in severe cases, blisters.
- Heatstroke is a more severe condition in which the body cannot regulate its temperature. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, and confusion. In rare instances, it can lead to seizures and loss of consciousness.
- Heat exhaustion: This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It is characterized by an extremely high body temperature, confusion, loss of consciousness, and, in some cases, death.
What to Do If You Experience a Sun-related Injury at Work
If you or a coworker experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Intense thirst
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps
- Blisters
Take the following steps:
- Move to a calm, shaded area.
- Drink water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
- Apply chilly compresses to your forehead and neck.
Remember, dehydration can be severe, especially for older adults and people with certain medical conditions. Preventing it and seeking medical attention if you experience symptoms is essential.
How to Protect Yourself from the Sun in Outdoor Jobs
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has specific regulations to protect workers from the dangers of the sun. These regulations require employers to take steps to prevent excessive UV exposure, such as:
- Providing adequate shade: Employers must provide shaded areas, such as canopies, trees, or permanent structures, where workers can take refuge from the sun during breaks or when necessary.
- Supplying sunscreen: Employers must provide their workers sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Encouraging hydration: Employers must ensure workers can access potable water and encourage frequent fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
- Training and education: Employers must educate their workers about the risks of sun exposure and the measures they can take to protect themselves, including how to recognize and respond to the signs of heat-related illnesses.
In summary, outdoor workers in California during the summer are at a higher risk of sun-related injuries. Employers must implement measures to protect their workers, such as providing shade, sunscreen, and water, and for workers to receive proper training to recognize and prevent heat-related illnesses.
If you have suffered a workplace injury from sun exposure, seek medical attention and legal advice to understand your rights and compensation options.
For a consultation or advice about law firms in Pasadena, CA, please contact us to learn about the legal options available to you and your case.
