As global temperatures continue to rise, so do the risks for those working under the sun or in hot environments. A recent report from the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) uncovered some chilling truths:
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3 out of 4 heat-related workers’ comp claims in the U.S. happen between June and August
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90% of these claims involve temps over 90°F
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In 2023, some Southern and Western counties saw over 100 days of 90°F+ temps
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And by 2050, the Southeast is projected to add 40 more of those days each year
Let that sink in.
Heat-related illness is not a rare event. It’s a growing crisis—especially in construction, manufacturing, public safety, transportation, and utilities. Police, firefighters, and newer or younger workers are at even higher risk.
📈 Key Takeaways from the WCRI Study:
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Southern states had 3x the claim rate compared to the Northeast
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Louisiana and Arkansas workers were 10x more likely to file a heat-related claim than workers in New Hampshire or Washington
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Heat stress most often affected new hires and younger men
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The risk of illness was:
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7x higher at 90–95°F
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18x higher at temps over 100°F
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- https://www.wcrinet.org/reports/impact-of-excessive-heat-on-the-frequency-of-work-related-injuries
🧠 Signs & Symptoms of Heat Illness:
Heat Exhaustion:
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Heavy sweating
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Fatigue or weakness
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Dizziness or headache
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Nausea or vomiting
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Cool, moist skin
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Muscle cramps
Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency):
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Body temp above 103°F
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Confusion, slurred speech, or unconsciousness
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Hot, dry, or damp skin
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Rapid pulse
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Seizures
🛠 Prevention Strategies to Include in Your Program:
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Acclimatization: Gradually increase workload for new or returning workers
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Hydration Stations: Provide cool water and electrolyte options every 15–20 minutes
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Shaded Breaks: Mandatory rest periods in cool/shaded areas
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Buddy System: Train workers to look out for one another
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Modified Schedules: Work early mornings or nights when possible
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Dress Code: Light-colored, breathable PPE and clothing
📋 Include in Your Health & Safety Program:
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🔹 Heat Illness Prevention Plan (HIPP)
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🔹 Training on early warning signs for supervisors and workers
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🔹 Daily weather assessments and response protocols
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🔹 Emergency Action Plan (EAP) procedures for heat stroke, including:
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Who calls EMS
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Who meets responders
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Who documents events
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Who communicates to the rest of the team
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⚠️ This Is Not Just an Inconvenience — It’s a Fatal Risk.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 33,900 heat-related injuries resulted in at least one missed day of work in recent years, and 479 deaths occurred between 2011 and 2022. Experts say these numbers are underreported.
Let’s be clear: if your safety plan doesn’t account for extreme heat, it’s not complete.
Add it now. Train on it often. And protect your team like it’s 105°F in the shade—because it probably will be.
📎 Downloadable resources, customizable EAP templates, and training guides are available on our Broken Compass Resources page:
👉 https://diaryofabaldman.com/broken-compass-series-resources