Heat Illness Prevention

IHC Wellness Team

Heat Illness Prevention

OSHA launched its annual heat illness prevention campaign in May to remind employers and employees of the risks associated with working outside in hot weather. When the body’s temperature control system is overloaded it can result in damage to the brain or other vital organs. Heat-related illnesses can be fatal. Each year OSHA publishes a list of Heat Fatalities where workers from industries such as landscaping services, construction, postal service, ship building and farming died of heat-related illnesses.

There are many factors that can increase sensitivity to heat.  Some of these factors include; heat index, certain drugs, obesity, age – especially the elderly with high blood pressure and heart disease. Heat stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to regulate its temperature. The warning signs include dry hot skin, rapid pulse, headache, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea and confusion.  These are life threatening signs of an emergency. Medical Assistance should be called immediately and the victim should be moved to a shady area while cooling methods are started, such as sponging the person with cool water.

To prevent heat-related illnesses OSHA urges us to use common sense while working outdoors. Keep cool, take plenty of breaks, pace yourself, increase fluid intake (2 to 4 glasses 16-32 ounces of water or replenishing fluids each hour), wear lightweight clothing and use the buddy system. Remember, ignoring the early warning signs of heat-related illness such as heat discomfort, sweating or thirst can lead to heat stroke or death.  By taking a few simple preventative measures, one can minimize the workplace risks associated with outdoor heat exposure.

For more information visit:

OSHA’s Campaign to Prevent Heat Illness – https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/

OSHA Heat Fatality List – https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/map_text.html

CDC Frequently Asked Questions – http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.asp

Safety+Health Magazine – http://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/ext/resources/files/current-digital-edition.htm