If you suffer from heatstroke or heat exhaustion while working in extreme temperatures, you could require immediate medical attention. Workers employed by Georgia companies may apply for workers’ compensation to recover from a heat-related illness or injury. Your employer’s insurance carrier must cover medical issues that result from doing your job.
Employees who work outside in hot and humid weather conditions face high risks of heat illnesses. As noted on the Weather.gov website, exposure to excessive heat affects the body’s ability to cool itself down. Excessive sweating also causes the human body to lose salt or fluid, which could bring on dehydration.
Know the symptoms of common heat-related illnesses
Painful heat cramps could lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Heat cramp symptoms include muscle spasms in your legs or abdomen. If you feel you can no longer work, you may need to rest or seek medical treatment.
Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, dizziness or heavy sweating. You may also have a weak pulse, feel nauseous or experience muscle cramps.
Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature goes over 103 degrees. You could become dizzy, confused or lose consciousness. If you pass out, your coworkers may need to get you to a hospital emergency room or call 911.
Workers’ comp could cover the cost of your recovery
Georgia’s labor laws require companies with three or more employees to carry workers’ comp insurance. Most policies cover work-related hospital care, doctor visits, treatments and procedures. You may also receive coverage for a rehabilitation specialist and apply for income assistance.
If you experience symptoms of a job-related illness or injury, tell your supervisor as soon as you can. By not applying for workers’ compensation within 30 days, you may forfeit your eligibility for benefits.