Heat-Related Illnesses: What Workers Need to Know

Posted on March 19, 2025 writen by Jane Paulson in Workplace Injury

Exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight puts construction workers at serious risk for heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration on the job. Your workplace injury lawyer with Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC can help if your employer failed to provide proper safety measures, such as shade, hydration, or rest breaks. Understanding the dangers of heat-related illnesses and your legal rights is critical for staying safe in extreme working conditions.

How Heat Stress Affects Construction Workers

Working in extreme heat poses serious risks for construction workers, especially those exposed to prolonged sun and high temperatures. Without adequate hydration and rest, workers can suffer from heat exhaustion, which may escalate into life-threatening heatstroke. OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention Standard mandates that employers provide access to water, shade, and scheduled breaks to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Employers must take proactive measures to ensure workers do not succumb to heat stress. Construction sites with inadequate cooling measures or intense physical labor increase the likelihood of dehydration and overheating. By enforcing safety protocols and providing training, employers can reduce the risk of severe heat-related illnesses on the job and their own employer liability.

Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses

Recognizing early warning signs of heat-related illnesses can prevent severe medical emergencies. Symptoms of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke include dizziness, confusion, and excessive sweating. Below are some of the most critical signs to watch for:

• Heavy sweating and pale skin 
• Dizziness or weakness 
• Rapid heartbeat and breathing 
• Headache and nausea 
• Loss of consciousness 

Recognizing Heatstroke Before It Becomes Fatal

Heatstroke is the most dangerous form of heat-related illness and can lead to permanent organ damage or death. Warning signs include confusion, slurred speech, and loss of coordination, signaling that the brain is being affected by extreme heat. If a worker experiences a high body temperature above 103°F, stops sweating, or collapses, immediate emergency intervention is required.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness on the Job

Preventing heat-related illnesses and construction accidents requires a combination of employer safety measures and worker awareness. Ensuring access to water, enforcing rest breaks, and providing proper training help reduce the risk of heat stress. Below are key preventative measures employers and workers should follow:

• Hydration stations – Employers must provide water to prevent dehydration. Workers should drink at least one cup of water every 15–20 minutes.
• Mandatory rest breaks – Workers must take regular breaks in shaded areas. Frequent cooling periods help regulate body temperature and prevent exhaustion.
• Acclimatization periods – New or returning workers should gradually adjust to heat conditions. Sudden exposure to extreme temperatures increases the likelihood of heat stress.
• Heat illness training – Employers must train workers on recognizing and responding to heat stress. Understanding symptoms helps prevent mild conditions from escalating.
• Protective clothing – Lightweight, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats reduce direct sun exposure. Reflective safety vests can also help lower body temperature.
• Early shift scheduling – Adjusting work hours to cooler morning or evening shifts minimizes prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. This approach helps prevent midday heat exhaustion.
• Cooling stations and ventilation – Providing air-conditioned break areas or fans on-site can significantly reduce overheating risks. Proper airflow and shade structures also help create safer conditions.

Request Legal Guidance from a Personal Injury Lawyer with Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC

Heat-related illnesses pose a serious threat to outdoor and industrial workers, especially in high-temperature environments. Recognizing early warning signs and knowing employer responsibilities can help prevent severe health complications. If you suffered a heat-related illness due to unsafe working conditions, a personal injury lawyer with Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC can help you pursue compensation. Fill out our online contact form or call us to schedule your no-cost, risk-free consultation today.