Working Safe This Summer
July 03, 2013 at 10:00 AM
If you work outside on a hot, sunny day, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun.
Heat stress is the body’s inability to control its internal temperature, which can result in serious illness or – in extreme cases – death.
The condition is most often brought on by high temperature and humidity, usually in combination with exposure to direct sun or heat and little air movement. The risk for heat stress may be intensified according to the level of physical activity and exertion required for a task and by a worker’s physical condition.
Symptoms of heat stress can vary between individuals, but most follow a progression: heat illness, heat exhaustion and – finally – heat stroke.
Heat illness involves any combination of headache, dizziness, upset stomach and vomiting. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include tiredness or weakness, moist skin and a rapid, weak pulse. If left unchecked, these symptoms can progress to heat stroke, which includes hot dry skin, a rapid, strong pulse, confusion, unconsciousness, seizures or convulsions.
Workers, supervisors and employers can work together to prevent heat stress by following a few simple tips:
- Monitor yourself and coworkers.
- Take rest breaks and drink when thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes.
- Work in the shade and away from other heat sources when possible.
- Build up tolerance to high temperatures.
In the instance a worker does develop heat stress, it is important to move him or her to a cool, shaded area immediately. Remove or loosen heavy clothing and provide cool drinking water. Call 911 immediately if you fear symptoms have progressed or are progressing towards heat stroke.
For more information, review the Guideline for Thermal Stress.
