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Provided by Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation

The heat this year has been astounding with record-breaking high temperatures reported across the state, even before the official first day of summer. Farmers, in particular, know that every Ohio summer is packed with unpredictable weather which begs the reminder for ways to stay safe in the heat.

Heat stress can lead to increased fatigue and diminished motor coordination, potentially causing illness or injury. Here are a few tips from Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) that may help prevent heat stress.

Hydrate often

Dehydration is the primary cause of heat stress. It is crucial for those working in the heat to replace fluids lost from sweat regularly. Staying hydrated will keep you and your workers safe and alert. Experts recommend one cup of cool water every 15-20 minutes while working in the heat, even if you are not feeling thirsty.

Stay aware

Cramps, headaches and dizziness can be symptoms of heat exhaustion, so it’s important to pay attention to how you are feeling, especially on hotter days. If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to find a shady area, take a break and hydrate. It’s also important to check in often with those on your team and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.

Be alert

Heat-related illnesses may appear less severe than they really are. If you observe someone experiencing signs of heat stroke (confusion, slurred speech, seizures, very high body temperature, rapid heart rate, unconsciousness) seek medical help immediately. 

Prepare a heat illness prevention plan

BWC offers a variety of free consulting services, including safety services for those working in agriculture. Consultants can help you put together a heat illness prevention plan that includes heat stress awareness training, health screenings, first-aid training and more.

For help with this free service, contact your local BWC service office, call 800-644-6292, or submit a request online. Please have your BWC policy number ready. A safety consultant will contact you within two business days.

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. We’ve got you Covered.
Established in 1912, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is the exclusive provider of workers’ compensation insurance in Ohio, serving 249,000 public and private employers. With nearly 1,600 employees and assets of approximately $25 billion, BWC is one of the largest state-run insurance systems in the United States. For more, visit bwc.ohio.gov.
Labor has always been an issue, mainly because we are a seasonal operation. So that's a challenge finding somebody who only wants to work three months out of a year, sometimes up to six months.
Mandy Way's avatar
Mandy Way

Way Farms

Farm Labor Resources
I appreciate the benefit of having a strong voice in my corner. The extras that are included in membership are wonderful, but I'm a member because of the positive impact to my local and state agricultural communities.
Ernie Welch's avatar
Ernie Welch

Van Wert County Farm Bureau

Strong communities
I see the value and need to be engaged in the community I live in, to be a part of the decision-making process and to volunteer with organizations that help make our community better.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

Darke County Farm Bureau

Leadership development
Farm Bureau involvement has taught me how to grow my professional and leadership experience outside of the workforce and how to do that in a community-centric way.
Jaclyn De Candio's avatar
Jaclyn De Candio

Clark County Farm Bureau

Young Ag Professionals program
With not growing up on a farm, I’d say I was a late bloomer to agriculture. I feel so fortunate that I found the agriculture industry. There are so many opportunities for growth.
Jenna Gregorich's avatar
Jenna Gregorich

Coshocton County Farm Bureau

Growing our Generation
Knowing that horticulture is under the agriculture umbrella and having Farm Bureau supporting horticulture like it does the rest of ag is very important.
Jared Hughes's avatar
Jared Hughes

Groovy Plants Ranch

Groovy Plants Ranch
If it wasn't for Farm Bureau, I personally, along with many others, would not have had the opportunity to meet with our representatives face to face in Washington.
Austin Heil's avatar
Austin Heil

Hardin County Farm Bureau

Washington, D.C. Leadership Experience
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
Mary Smallsreed's avatar
Mary Smallsreed

Trumbull County Farm Bureau

Advocacy
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