Those who work in warehouses, factories, or outdoors, are usually no strangers to high temperatures. If you are just starting to work in one of these environments, you likely have an increased chance of developing a heat-related illness. After all, between 50% and 70% of heat-related workplace fatalities occur in the first few days of employment.
While acclimating to the heat may help eventually, you may be at risk of developing heat stroke at work. This medical emergency occurs when the body’s temperature climbs above 104 degrees. Even with immediate treatment, you may be vulnerable to potential complications.
Organ failure
The human body is not able to tolerate excessive temperatures for long. If you develop heat stroke, every organ in your body may sustain damage. Your heart, kidneys and muscles may be particularly vulnerable, though, with your risk of major organ failure increasing the longer you wait to seek treatment.
Brain damage
If your body temperature is too high, your brain may begin to swell. As your brain presses against your skull, it may sustain damage. Heatstroke-associated brain damage may lead to paralysis, speech impairments, memory loss and other significant problems. You may also develop a cerebrospinal fluid leak due to brain swelling.
Death
Heat causes more deaths in the U.S. than any other weather event. Consequently, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of heat-related illness, it is critical to reduce your body temperature as quickly as possible.
Even though you want to make a good first impression, few jobs are worth jeopardizing your health or life. Ultimately, though, if you suffer complications from heat stroke, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to help you manage your recovery.