Summer is an exciting time to relax and also work a summer job for many teens and college students. However, there are inherent risks that come with summer jobs. Below explains five things to keep in mind while working your summer job.
Dehydration
Many states across the country are experiencing record high temperatures. Dehydration is one of the most common risks associated with summer jobs. Symptoms of dehydration include thirstiness, weakness, dizziness and even fainting. Always take breaks and drink plenty of fluids. The best drinks are those containing electrolytes, such as the popular sports drink Gatorade.
Heat Exhaustion
This condition often occurs after dehydration. Heat exhaustion can be due to either water or salt depletion. The symptoms of each condition are similar to dehydration. However, water depletion induced heat exhaustion typically causes thirst, headaches and weakness. Salt depletion causes nausea and vomiting. Be aware that extreme heat exhaustion may lead to heat stroke, which is a life threatening condition.
Natural Dangers
Anyone working outdoors may be exposed to potentially harmful insects, plants and even dangerous wildlife. Poison ivy, oak and sumac grow throughout the country and will cause allergic reactions upon contact with skin. In fact, if these plants are burned the smoke is considered toxic. Always keep in mind that workers who are stung or bitten by an insect or animal may have a serious allergic reaction, which may lead to anaphylactic shock.
Occupational Hazards
Certain jobs and industries are more dangerous than others. Fishing, agriculture, forestry and construction are the most dangerous industries to work in. For example, commercial fishing may offer a lucrative pay, but drowning and on-board injuries are quite common. Forestry jobs, such as logging, involve falling trees, chainsaws and heavy machinery. However, landscaping and outside home repair are also very dangerous. For example, heat exhaustion is very common among roofers.
Accidents
Working outside in an unsafe environment, such as a construction site, raises the risk of being in an accident. Many industries that utilize manual labor often prioritize speed over safety so they can meet deadlines and stay profitable. However, this also increases the likelihood of accidents. If you are injured on the job, consider working with a personal injury law firm like Bachus & Schanker Law to protect your interests.
Workers should be aware of unique occupational hazards that occur during the summer when on the job. The warm season offers a wide array of different dangers every employee of any business should be weary about. Learn more about the most dangerous summer jobs from NBC, here: http://www.nbcnews.com/id/44033055/ns/business-careers/t/feeling-heat-most-dangerous-summer-jobs/#.Vagj1fmScQQ.
