Summer can bring more customers to your business, but the heat can also bring an increase in workplace injuries or health issues if workers are exposed to the elements without protection. Creating a safer work environment in the hot summer months should be a priority for any business owner with workers outside in the heat.
In part one of our two-part blog series, we first discussed common accidents and injuries that are more likely to occur during the summer months, and now we'll offer several important tips to make your workplace safer this summer. Also, learn how Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can protect your business and workers throughout the year.
Businesses With Greater Heat Risks in The Summer
Offering a safer summer work environment is a bigger issue for businesses that regularly have workers out in the heat. They face a greater risk of employees getting injured or sick from the heat, and may suffer a drop in staff and productivity during busy summer months.
Businesses that should consider the increased risks during summer months include:
- Restaurants with uncovered patios
- Retailers with outdoor merchandise
- Landscape or tree care employees
- Delivery drivers loading and unloading packages
- HVAC or plumbing contractors on rooftops or in sweltering attics
If your business regularly has employees completing tasks or performing work in the summer heat, it's important to safeguard their health with proactive safety steps.
Tips to Improve Workplace Safety
If your workers spend a significant amount of time outdoors, here are some tips to help them beat the heat and stay safe:
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration is a common issue during hot summer days, so make sure your employees have access to plenty of water. Encourage them to drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Providing shaded rest areas and water stations can also go a long way in preventing heat-related illnesses.
- Dress for success: Encourage workers to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers their skin to protect against the sun. If possible, hats and sunglasses can be worn to shield them from harmful UV rays, and sunscreen can help as well.
- Schedule smartly: Whenever possible, try to adjust work schedules to avoid or minimize exposure in the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If rescheduling isn't feasible, consider implementing more frequent breaks and encouraging employees to rest in shaded areas.
- Training and awareness: Educate your workers about the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Make sure they understand the importance of taking breaks when needed and recognizing the early symptoms of heat-related problems.
Aegis Helps Protect Businesses and Workers
Your workforce is vital to the success and stability of your business, so worker safety should be protected, especially during the brutal Texas heat of the summer months. Aegis Insurance & Financial Services also values worker protection, and helps by offering reliable Workers Compensation coverage.
This cost-effective insurance policy helps businesses by providing affected employees coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs if they're injured on the job. This gives workers the financial resources needed to make a full recovery, and also shields companies from costly lawsuits that can stem from worker injuries or illness on the job.
If your business needs the kind of financial protection that comes from Workers Compensation coverage, contact Aegis today to learn more. Our Commercial Insurance team can help you get the policy you need to protect your workers and your business.
Contact our team today at 713-850-7622 to discuss your Business Insurance needs, or fill out our online form to request a free quote!