Summer Hazards Don't Take a Vacation
Summer is one of the busiest times of year for city employees. Warmer weather often brings longer days and increased outdoor activity. It also brings seasonal hazards that can put employees at risk. From extreme heat and poisonous plants to venomous wildlife and disease-carrying insects, city workers face a variety of challenges that require awareness, preparation, and training.
KLC Insurance Loss Control has developed a series of Hazard Alerts to help members identify and reduce these risks before incidents occur.
Heat Awareness
Kentucky summers can be hot, humid, and unforgiving. Employees who work outdoors may be exposed to conditions that increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat syncope, and heat stroke. Dehydration, physical exertion, and prolonged sun exposure can quickly become dangerous, particularly for employees with underlying health conditions.
Supervisors should encourage frequent hydration, schedule breaks in shaded areas, monitor weather conditions, and train employees to recognize the signs of heat stress before an emergency occurs.
Read the KLC Loss Control Heat Awareness Hazard Alert for prevention tips and warning signs
Read the KLC Loss Control Heat Awareness Hazard Alert for prevention tips and warning signs
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Poisonous Plants Are More Than an Itchy Nuisance
Many city employees work in areas with dangerous plants. While poison ivy can cause severe skin irritation, poison hemlock presents a much greater threat. The invasive plant has become widespread throughout Kentucky, and all parts of the plant are highly toxic to people and animals. Exposure or ingestion can result in serious illness or even death.
Employees should be trained to identify hazardous plants, wear appropriate protective clothing, and avoid burning vegetation that may contain poisonous species.
Wildlife Encounters Can Become Safety Emergencies
Outdoor work often brings employees into contact with wildlife. Whether it's a venomous snake, a raccoon exhibiting unusual behavior, or a bat in a building, city employees need to understand how to respond safely.
Kentucky's venomous snakes — including copperheads, timber rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and pygmy rattlesnakes — are most active during warmer months. Workers should avoid handling snakes, remain aware of their surroundings, and seek emergency medical attention immediately if bitten.
The wildlife alert also reminds employees that raccoons, skunks, and bats are among the primary carriers of rabies in Kentucky and should never be approached if they appear sick or behave unusually.
Tiny Pests, Big Problems
Mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, bees, wasps, and hornets are common summer nuisances, but they can also pose serious health risks. Tick and mosquito bites can expose workers to illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Alpha-gal syndrome, and West Nile Virus. Meanwhile, venomous spiders and stinging insects can cause medical emergencies.
Simple precautions such as wearing long sleeves, using EPA-approved insect repellent, performing regular tick checks, and inspecting work areas before beginning a task can significantly reduce risk.
A Safe Summer Starts with Awareness
City employees provide essential services regardless of the weather or working conditions. By recognizing seasonal hazards and taking proactive steps to prevent injuries and illnesses, cities can help ensure employees stay safe.
KLC Insurance Loss Control encourages members to review these hazard alerts with employees, incorporate the information into safety meetings, and use the resources as part of ongoing training efforts throughout the summer.
Questions about workplace safety or risk management? Contact the KLC Loss Control team for assistance.
Contact Info
Aaron Parrish
Director of Loss Control
