Outdoor workers reminded to take precautionary measures during hot temps
Experts say workers should take frequent breaks from direct sunlight and properly hydrate.
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With temperatures rising, thousands working outside are being reminded to keep heat stress in mind.
"We've got to make sure everybody is safe," co-owner of O'Neill's Irish Pub & Restaurant Donal Leahy says. "COVID was probably the worst when he had to be out here in the heat. At least now, we have a choice to go back into the air conditioning."
Heat is the No. 1 one weather-related killer in the United States, claiming nearly 700 lives each year, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Many of those harmed or killed are workers.
Experts say workers should take frequent breaks from direct sunlight and properly hydrate.
Employers should schedule physically demanding work during the cooler parts of the day and provide employees with moisture-wicking clothing to help employees keep cool.
"Wear nice light clothing and if you feel like you're getting dizzy, just go inside and always be careful," Leahy says.
Over the last 10 years in Connecticut, about 30 workers were treated in emergency departments each year for heat-related illnesses.
Experts suggest having someone onsite who's trained to recognize and treat heat stress disorders like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
