Construction Rights: When It’s Too Hot to Work
Summer is always hot, but with the extreme weather in the region lately, concerns about worker safety in extreme temperatures are heating up too. A recent article from the Independent underscores the growing pressure on employers—especially those in construction and other outdoor industries—to protect their teams from the dangers of working in high temperatures.
While OSHA doesn’t set a maximum temperature for outdoor work, it does require employers to protect workers from heat-related illnesses under the General Duty Clause. This duty of care includes conducting risk assessments, making reasonable accommodations, and taking prompt action when conditions become unsafe—especially during extreme heat.
Construction sites are particularly hazardous during heatwaves. Heavy gear, physical exertion, and prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Heat exhaustion or stroke
- Muscle cramps and fatigue
- Impaired focus, increasing the risk of accidents
These aren’t minor issues—they can lead to serious injuries, hospitalizations, or worse. For medically vulnerable workers or those with underlying conditions, the risks are even greater.
Employers can take proactive steps to reduce heat-related hazards. These include:
- Scheduling strenuous work during cooler parts of the day
- Providing shaded or air-conditioned rest areas
- Ensuring easy access to cool water
- Allowing frequent rest breaks
- Monitoring workers for signs of heat stress
OSHA also encourages employers to implement a heat illness prevention program.
We’ve seen how serious the consequences can be when safety takes a back seat. When employers neglect their duty to protect workers on job sites and injuries happen, they may be liable for negligence—and workers have rights.
We encourage you to contact a top Philadelphia construction injury law firm to discuss your case and see what legal options you have.