SAFETY NEWS – HEAT STRESS

Fluid Replacement Guidelines for Warm Weather Training

Working in the heat can be risky to your health. Life- threatening problems can occur if your body is unable to stay cool enough in hot temperatures or high humidity. Heat stress causes a range of health effects, which can lower your job performance and become life-threatening if left untreated.

Health Risks

  • Heat stroke is life-threatening. Your body can no longer cool itself. You may have hot, dry skin, experience confusion, convulsions, or loss of consciousness.

Heat stroke can kill.

If you or a coworker experience symptoms, call 911 and get emergency medical help!

  • Heat exhaustion develops when your body has lost too much fluid. Signs of heat exhaustion include damp, flushed skin, feeling tired, nauseous, head achy, or giddy.
  • Heat cramps occur when salt your body loses from sweating isn’t replaced. They affect the muscles you use most and can set in after you’ve left work.
  • Heat rash occurs when sweat can’t evaporate from your skin. It can make work activities difficult to perform.

A SAFE WORKPLACE IS YOUR RIGHT!

To protect workers from heat stress, employers can:

  • Provide clean water in convenient locations at all work areas.
  • Schedule frequent rest and water breaks.
  • Reduce work demands or scheduling heavy labor for cooler times.
  • Ensure adequate air circulation in work areas (e.g. ventilation).
  • Provide adequate and immediate medical response in the event of heat stress.
  • Choose PPE with heat stress in mind

PROTECT YOURSELF!

  • Know and report early signs and symptoms. • Drink water frequently. • Take breaks in cool, shaded areas. • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Report problems with heat, AC or drinking water. Take breaks and be alert to signs of heat stress when > 85°F. Implement all precautions when >95°F – the DANGER ZONE for heat exhaustion and stroke.

Spotlight on Breaks: No OSHA standard exists on heat breaks. However, take action as soon as you or a coworker begins to feel symptoms of heat stress!