Construction Law
Summer Hazards for Florida Construction Projects
Florida summers are traditionally filled with temperamental weather patterns that rapidly shift back and forth between pristine and sunny to nightmarish and stormy, but that’s not the only danger facing construction workers in the Sunshine State. Brandon construction attorneys know that Florida’s weather permits annual construction, but that means more opportunities for personal injury and the possibility of workers’ compensation claims.
If you plan on putting your team to work through Florida’s sweltering summer weather, it’s important to prepare in advance for summertime hazards. This includes consulting a Brandon construction attorney to ensure that you don’t become the target of a legal dispute. Consider whether or not these hazards pose a significant risk to your team before proceeding with a construction project this summer.
Beware of Overheating
According to U.S. Climate Data, Florida averages high temperatures in the low 90s during June, July, and August. During this period, Florida also experiences between 7 and 8 inches of rain per month, which ramps up the humidity, and along with it the perceived temperature, by as much as five degrees or more.
The Florida Department of Health published a document titled “Health Effects of Summer Heat in Florida” which mentions “important public health implications from daily and extreme heat” including:
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat stroke
- Cardiovascular health
- Degenerative mental health
- Behavioral disorders
- Respiratory health
- Endocrine functions
- Renal functions
Red Tide
Florida is actively battling one of the worst red tide contaminations in history, with little indication that the harmful algal bloom will be stopped anytime soon. While the most common symptoms of a red tide outbreak include beaches covered in decaying sea life and a repugnant, asphyxiating odor, this year’s outbreak has spread inward to effect non-coastal areas. As a result, the Florida Department of Health has issued warnings to those living in coastal communities and communities within close proximity of the coastline. If your firm is working on projects in afflicted areas, your workers could suffer from mild respiratory issues or nausea.
Mosquitoes
The Sunshine State is a haven for mosquito-borne diseases like the West Nile, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika Virus, especially in South Florida where humidity and heat cultivate the perfect environment for airborne pests. Summertime construction sites are primed for mosquitoes because they often contain stagnant water from rainfall, which is ideal for breeding, and plenty of potential hosts for harvesting blood. Utilize mosquito repellant on your project sites, especially during periods of mosquito-borne disease outbreak.
Coping with Florida summers isn’t easy, but with a Brandon construction lawyer on your team, you can ensure that your workers are protected against overheating, red tide, mosquitoes, and any other unexpected hazards.
If you would like to speak with a Brandon construction lawyer, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.