Deadly Degrees: Report Reveals Staggering Human, Worker Toll of California Heat

Extreme heat in California is claiming hundreds of lives each year and causing thousands of injuries, while also inflicting billions of dollars in economic losses, according to a report by the state insurance department.

The report by California Department of Insurance looks at seven extreme heat events in the state from 2013 to 2022 and found they took the lives of several hundred Californians, which had a total economic impact of $7.7 billion in the form of lost wages and productivity, agricultural and manufacturing disruptions, power outages, infrastructure damage and more.

Among the noteworthy points in the report:

• Human Impact: There is a tragic human cost of extreme heat, reporting hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries annually. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and those with preexisting health conditions, are particularly at risk. The article underscores that heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and dehydration, can escalate quickly, leading to severe health consequences or death.
• Economic Cost: The financial burden of extreme heat is staggering, with billions of dollars in costs attributed to healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and damage to infrastructure. Businesses suffer from reduced worker efficiency and increased absenteeism during heat waves. Additionally, the agricultural sector faces significant losses due to heat stress on crops and livestock.
• Infrastructural Strain: Extreme heat also places immense pressure on California’s infrastructure. Heat waves lead to increased energy consumption as residents and businesses rely heavily on air conditioning. This surge in demand can strain the power grid, leading to blackouts and further economic disruption. Roads and railways can also suffer damage from prolonged high temperatures, necessitating costly repairs and maintenance.
• Climate Change Connection: The report connects the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves to climate change. It discusses scientific predictions that suggest these extreme weather events will become more common and severe as global temperatures rise. This connection underscores the urgency for both mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the root causes and effects of climate change.
• Policy and Mitigation Efforts: In response to the growing threat of extreme heat, various policy measures and community initiatives are aimed at mitigating its impact. These include the development of early warning systems, the creation of cooling centers, and the implementation of urban planning strategies to reduce heat islands. The article also highlights the importance of public education campaigns to raise awareness about heat-related risks and protective measures.

There is a need for comprehensive and coordinated efforts to address the multifaceted challenges posed by extreme heat, the report concludes, including increased investment in infrastructure resilience, stronger public health initiatives, and sustained efforts to combat climate change.

Without significant action, the human, economic, and infrastructural costs of extreme heat in California will continue to rise,” said Beatriz Trejo, work injury lawyer with the Law Office of Chain | Cohn | Clark.

“The staggering number of heat-related injuries and deaths in the workplace is not just a statistic — it’s a call to action,” Trejo said. “Employers have a legal and moral obligation to safeguard their workers from the dangers of extreme heat. Every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of the day, regardless of the temperature outside.”

NEW INDOOR HEAT RULES

The California Office of Administrative Law has approved new Cal/OSHA regulations aimed at protecting indoor workers from heat-related illnesses. These regulations, which went into effect on July 23, 2024, represent a significant step in workplace safety standards.

Key points of the new indoor heat illness prevention rules include:

• Applicability: The regulations apply to most indoor work areas when temperatures reach or exceed 82 degrees.
• Exemptions: State prisons are exempt from these rules due to cost concerns. Storage sheds and outdoor storage areas are also exempt, unless temperatures reach 95 degrees or higher and an employee enters the space.
• Employer responsibilities: Provide cool drinking water, create cooling areas for employees, allow cooldown breaks, monitor employees during cooldown breaks, provide training on indoor heat rules, keep temperature records and frequently measure indoor heat index.
• Restrictive clothing considerations: The trigger temperature for implementing these measures is lower when employees are required to wear heavy safety equipment.
• Small business accommodation: The rules include an option for creating outdoor cooldown spaces, recognizing space limitations for small businesses in rented buildings.

HEAT ILLNESS + SAFETY

Heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, can escalate rapidly and become life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

• Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, a fast but weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. If untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.
• Heat Stroke: This is a severe condition marked by a high body temperature (above 103°F), hot, red, dry, or damp skin, a rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

To avoid heat-related illnesses, it is essential to follow safety guidelines during periods of extreme heat.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water, juice, and sports drinks are recommended, while beverages containing caffeine or alcohol should be avoided as they can lead to dehydration. Replace salts and minerals lost through sweating by consuming snacks or sports drinks.
• Stay Cool: Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned environments. If your home lacks air conditioning, visit public places such as shopping malls, libraries, or designated cooling centers. Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: Schedule outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Rest frequently in shaded areas to allow your body to recover from the heat.
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to prevent sunburn, which can impair your body’s ability to cool down. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors to protect yourself from direct sunlight.
• Monitor Health and Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and heat alerts to stay informed about extreme heat conditions. Check on friends, family, and neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have health conditions, to ensure they are coping with the heat.
• Emergency Preparedness: Learn to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses and how to respond to them. Knowing first aid and CPR can be lifesaving in emergencies. Have a plan for power outages, including backup power sources for essential medical equipment.

By adhering to these safety tips and staying vigilant, Californians can reduce the risk of heat-related injuries and deaths.

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If you or someone you know is injured in an accident at the fault of someone else, or injured on the job no matter whose fault it is, contact the attorneys at Chain | Cohn | Clark by calling (661) 323-4000, or fill out a free consultation form, text, or chat with us at chainlaw.com.