As temperatures climb across much of the country, so does the risk of workplace injuries related to heat exposure. While many organizations associate heat illness with construction or agriculture, the reality is much broader. Employees in transportation, manufacturing, warehousing, public works, landscaping, utilities, and even indoor facilities without adequate climate control can all face serious heat-related hazards.

For employers, heat is more than a seasonal safety concern. It has become an operational and workers’ compensation issue that deserves proactive attention before temperatures reach their peak.

The Data Behind the Risk

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an estimated 33,890 work-related heat injuries and illnesses resulting in days away from work occurred between 2011 and 2020, averaging nearly 3,400 cases every year. During roughly the same period, 479 U.S. workers lost their lives due to occupational heat exposure, though experts believe the true number is likely higher because heat-related illnesses are often underreported or listed under other medical conditions.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to place greater emphasis on protecting employees from both outdoor and indoor heat hazards. In 2026, OSHA updated its National Emphasis Program to focus inspections and outreach on industries where heat-related illnesses are most likely to occur, reinforcing that employers should have effective heat illness prevention programs in place.

Heat Risk Extends Beyond Construction

Although outdoor workers often receive the most attention, many indoor workplaces can experience dangerous temperatures as well. Manufacturing facilities, warehouses, commercial kitchens, laundry operations, and maintenance environments frequently expose employees to elevated heat levels.

Certain employees may also face increased risk, including:

  • New or returning employees who have not acclimatized to hot conditions
  • Employees performing physically demanding work
  • Workers required to wear heavy protective equipment
  • Individuals with certain medical conditions or medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature
  • Employees working in areas with poor ventilation or limited air circulation
  • Employees working near heat-generating equipment (boilers, ovens, furnaces, machinery)
  • Employees working long shifts or extended overtime during hot weather

Recognizing these risk factors early can significantly reduce the likelihood of serious injury.

Prevention Is the Best Claims Strategy

Heat-related illnesses often develop gradually, making early intervention critical. Employers can reduce risk by implementing practical prevention strategies before temperatures become extreme.

Effective programs commonly include:

  • Readily available drinking water throughout the workday
  • Scheduled rest breaks during periods of high heat
  • Access to shaded or cooled recovery areas
  • Supervisor and employee training to recognize the early signs of heat illness
  • Acclimatization plans for new employees and those returning after extended absences
  • Emergency response procedures for suspected heat illness

These measures not only help protect employees but can also reduce lost work time, medical costs, and claim severity.

The Business Impact of Heat-Related Claims

Heat-related injuries can quickly become complex workers’ compensation claims. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, requiring emergency medical treatment and extended recovery. Employees who become dehydrated may also experience dizziness, falls, or other secondary injuries that increase claim costs.

Beyond workers’ compensation, employers must also consider operational impacts such as staffing disruptions, overtime, reduced productivity, and regulatory scrutiny following serious incidents.

Preparing before the hottest days arrive is typically far less costly than responding after an injury occurs.

A Proactive Approach

At Athens, we work with employers every day to identify opportunities that reduce claim frequency and improve outcomes before injuries occur. Heat illness prevention is one example where proactive planning, clear communication, and strong safety practices can make a meaningful difference for both employees and organizations.

As summer temperatures continue to rise, now is an ideal time to review existing heat illness prevention programs, evaluate workplace risks, and ensure managers know how to respond when conditions become hazardous.

Protecting employees from heat isn’t simply about compliance. It’s about creating safer workplaces, supporting faster recoveries, and helping prevent avoidable claims before they happen.