HEAT ILLNESS CAN BE DEADLY. Every year, thousands of workers become sick from exposure to heat, and some even die. Heat illnesses and deaths are preventable. Employers are responsible for providing workplaces that are safe from excessive heat.
What is heat illness?
The body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating isn’t enough. Body temperature can rise to dangerous levels if precautions are not taken such as drinking water frequently and resting in the shade. Heat illnesses range from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention and can result in death.
How can heat illness be prevented?
Locations should provide workers with water, rest and shade. You should gradually increase workloads and take more frequent breaks for new workers or workers who have been away for a week or more to build a tolerance for working in the heat (acclimatization). Workers new to the heat or those that have been away from work and are returning can be most vulnerable to heat stress and they must be acclimatized.
To prevent heat related illness and fatalities:
- Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you are not thirsty.
- Rest in the shade to cool down.
- Wear a hat and light-colored clothing.
- Learn the signs of heat illness and what to do in an emergency.
- Keep an eye on fellow workers.
- “Easy does it” on your first days of work in the heat. You need to get used to it.
Remember these three simple words: Water, Rest, Shade. Taking these precautions can mean the difference between life and death. The job we do is an outside job, and subject to hot weather.
It is mandatory that you download the OSHA Heat Index Tool to your phone immediately. If you have an Apple iPhone, click here. If you have an Android Phone, click here. You need to know what the Heat Index is for the day at your location. Using this tool will provide you with that necessary information.
Conclusion:
Understand the warning signs of heat illness. Keep an eye on your fellow workers. Download the OSHA Heat Index Tool to your phone and learn how to use it.
Questions:
- How often do you need to drink water?
- Heat stroke requires ____________ medical attention, and can result in __________.
- Is the OSHA Heat Index Tool downloaded and installed on your phone?
By submitting this form, you acknowledge that you have downloaded and installed the OSHA Heat Index Tool on your phone.