Occupational Injury Rate: Heat Related Deaths & ER Visits

Nationally, the fatal occupational injury rate in 2021 was 3.6%,which represents the highest annual rate since 2016. A worker died every 101 minutes from awork-related injury in 2021. In 2021, transportation incidents retained their position as the most common cause of fatal events, resulting in 1,982 fatal injuries. This represented an 11.5% increase compared to 2020. Within the scope of work-related fatalities for 2021, transportation incidents accounted for38.2%, making it the leading category.

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As we approach and enter the summer months, it is important to ensure your safety approaches align well to take into consideration the weather. Since 2011, there have been 436 work-related deaths caused by environmental heat exposure. These data are from the Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities program. There were only 36 of these deaths in 2021, a trend down from prior years. While heat-related deaths are a relative low percentage of the total, they are a large driver of emergency room visits and can be avoidable.

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Heat-related deaths occur most frequently during the summer months as is obvious when temperatures are high and humidity levels rise. The combination of prolonged exposure to extreme heat, inadequate hydration, and limited access to cool environments poses a significant risk for employers with hard labor and outdoor positions, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

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Heat-related deaths are a significant concern in the realm of workers' compensation and overall workplace safety. Employers have a responsibility to ensure a safe working environment, especially in industries exposed to extreme heat. Implementing preventive measures, such as providing hydration stations, rest breaks in shaded areas, and appropriate personal protective equipment, can help mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities. Proper training and awareness programs are essential to educate workers about the signs of heat stress and the importance of staying hydrated, ultimately fostering a safer work environment.

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Primary drivers and causes of heat related deaths include:

1. Heatstroke: This is the most severe heat-related illness and can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, and the core body     temperature rises to dangerous levels (often above 104°F or 40°C). Heatstroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. It is often caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and physical exertion.
2. Dehydration: In hot weather, excessive sweating can lead to fluid loss from the body, resulting in dehydration. When the body lacks enough fluids, it becomes     difficult to maintain normal body temperature. Severe dehydration can impair organ function and increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
3. Heat exhaustion: This condition is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, leading to excessive sweating and resulting in the loss of salt and water from the body. It can occur due to physical exertion in hot weather or inadequate fluid intake. Heat exhaustion can cause symptoms like heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and fainting. If left untreated, it can progress to heatstroke.
4. Pre-existing health conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, obesity, diabetes, and mental health disorders, may be more susceptible to heat-related complications. These conditions can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature or respond to heat stress, increasing the risk of heat-related deaths.
5. Age: Extreme heat affects people of all ages, but certain groups are more vulnerable. Infants and young children, as well as older adults (especially those above 65 years), are at a higher risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Older adults may have reduced sweat production and diminished thirst perception, making them more prone to dehydration and heat stress.
6. Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors can exacerbate the impact of heat on the body. High humidity impairs the evaporation of sweat, making it     more difficult for the body to cool down. Urban heat islands, where cities have higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to concrete and asphalt retaining heat, can intensify the effects of extreme heat.

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A little heat awareness and training can make a significant difference in preventing heat-related hospital encounters. Understanding the signs of heat stress, practicing proper hydration, and knowing when to take breaks in cooler environments can help individuals avoid severe heat-related illnesses and potentially life-threatening situations.