Exposure to high or prolonged amounts of heat and humidity without relief or adequate fluid intake can cause various types of heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can escalate rapidly, leading to delirium, organ damage and even death Learn more about heat illness and how to protect yourself both in the workplace and at home.
People most at risk for heat illness include:
- Those who work in the heat
- Infants and young children, especially if left in hot cars
- People 65 and older
- People who are ill, have chronic health conditions or are on certain medications
- People who are overweight
If your job requires you to work in a hot environment, take precautions to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses:
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and be sure to replenish electrolytes.
- Avoid dehydrating liquids. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks can hurt more than help.
- Wear protective clothing. Lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing helps protect against heat. Change clothing if it gets completely saturated.
- Pace yourself. Slow down and work at an even pace. Know your own limits and ability to work safely in heat.
- Schedule frequent breaks. Take time for rest periods and water breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Avoid getting sunburn. Use sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and make sure to reapply every 2 hours or sooner if swimming, sweating or toweling off.
- Be alert to signs of heat-related illness. Know what to look for and check on other workers that might be at high risk.
Knowing the symptoms and proper response for heat illnesses can save a life:
Heat Exhaustion
When the body loses excessive water and salt, usually due to sweating, heat exhaustion can occur. Signs and symptoms include:
- Pale, ashen, or moist skin
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue, weakness, or exhaustion
- Headache, dizziness, or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can evolve into heat stroke, so make sure to treat victims quickly:
- Move victims to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Give water or other cool, nonalcoholic beverages.
- Apply wet towels, or have victims take a cool shower.
Heat Stroke
Seek medical help immediately if someone is suffering from heat stroke. Signs include:
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Skin that is flushed, dry and hot to the touch; sweating has usually stopped
- Rapid breathing
- Headache, dizziness, confusion or other signs of altered mental status
- Irrational or belligerent behavior
- Convulsions or unresponsiveness
Immediately take action:
- Call Life Safety, Security, or 911immediately.
- Move the victim to a cool place.
- Remove unnecessary clothing.
- Move the victim to a cool area and cover as much of the body as possible with cold, wet towels.
- Keep cooling until body temperature drops to 101 degrees.
DO NOT:
- Force the victim to drink liquids
- Allow victims to take pain relievers or salt tablets
CSB+SJU and OSB are committed to fostering a safe work environment. If you observe a safety hazard, please don’t hesitate to report it to the Safety Committee at [email protected]