The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) has released a new study, “Adverse Weather and Workers Compensation Claims,” revealing that extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold, significantly increase workers’ compensation claims. The research, examining data over 22 years across 35 states, found that temperature fluctuations, particularly at the extremes, are closely linked to the frequency of work-related injuries.
Heat Waves and Cold Snaps: A Closer Look at Temperature Effects
According to the study, days with very high or very low temperatures see up to 10% more workers’ compensation claims compared to milder days. The impact of heat grows with rising temperatures, affecting outdoor sectors like construction most severely. Conversely, cold days, especially those around the freezing point, see a spike in claims due to more frequent slip-and-fall incidents and motor vehicle accidents.
Changing Patterns in Recent Decades
While the influence of temperature on injury rates has been consistently significant, the study notes a slight decrease in the frequency of claims related to extreme temperatures during the 2010s and 2020s compared to the 2000s. This trend could be partly attributed to an increase in remote and hybrid work arrangements since the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly diminishing the frequency of injuries on colder days.
Geographic Variations in Weather Impact
The research also highlights that an increase in hot days has a similar effect on workers’ compensation claims in both traditionally warmer and cooler cities. In contrast, winter precipitation—leading to icy conditions—poses a greater risk in colder cities, which experience more freezing temperatures.
Implications for Workplace Standards
Recent developments suggest a growing focus on establishing clearer standards for workplace exposure to adverse weather. The United States Department of Labor proposed new heat-related standards in July 2024, reflecting an increasing regulatory interest in protecting workers from the health risks posed by extreme temperatures. Additionally, several states have begun implementing their own specific regulations to complement federal guidelines.
This comprehensive study by NCCI underscores the need for continued attention to the effects of adverse weather on workplace safety and the importance of adapting workers’ compensation practices to changing environmental conditions.