Know the signs and symptoms of heat illness and what to do in case someone gets sick. This helps prevent serious and fatal heat illnesses while working outdoors.
What is Heat Illness?
A serious medical condition resulting when the body is unable to cool itself through perspiration, sweat.
What are the symptoms of heat illness?
Heat Stress –Light-headedness and muscle cramps, increased fatigue and lethargy,
Heat Exhaustion – Heavy sweating, fast pulse, headaches and dizziness, fast, shallow breathing, nausea and vomiting.
Heat Stroke (Life-threatening) – Hot skin (may be dry or wet), throbbing headache, high body temperature, hallucinations, confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, fainting or un-responsive.
Why is it important to know the symptoms of Heat Illness?
So that you will recognize the symptoms in yourself or your co-workers sooner rather than later! During a heat wave you are at greater risk of getting sick. You need to watch yourself and coworkers more closely, and may need to drink more water and take more breaks in the shade to cool down.
What does it take to protect your-self from Heat Illness?
1. Know the signs and symptoms of heat illness and apply prevention measures.
2. Provide enough fresh water so that each employee can drink at least 1 quart per hour,
or four 8- ounce glasses of water per hour, and encourage them to do so throughout the work day.
3. Provide access to shade and encourage employees to take a cool‐down rest in the shade for at least 5 minutes. They should not wait until they feel sick to cool down. Shade structures must be in place when temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit are forecasted.
4. Closely observe all employees during a heat wave (90o +) and any employee newly assigned to a high heat area. Lighter work, frequent breaks or shorter hours will help employees who have not been working in high temperatures adapt to the new conditions.
5. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine (Red Bull/Monster type drinks) because they increase dehydration.
What do you do when you recognize symptoms of Heat Illness?
Move the person to a cool, shaded area, Provide fresh cool water to drink.
Remove heavy clothing. Mist the person with water and fan their body to cool them from the heat.