Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths, and with increasing temperatures around the globe, workers are more at risk than ever. Extended work in hot temperatures can cause heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, rashes, and fatigue, any of which can come on quickly and overwhelmingly. To keep yourself and your team safe, it's crucial to take breaks, stay hydrated, and acclimatize new or returning workers gradually to the heat.
Acclimatization
The 20% Rule: New employees need to be acclimatized to heat. They should work no more than 20% of their shift at full intensity in the heat. Increase the duration by 20% each day until they are acclimatized.
Hydration
Drink 1 cup (8 ounces) of cool water every 15-20 minutes, regardless of thirst. Hydrate before, during, and even after work; most people need several hours of fluids to replace what they've lost through sweating.
Cooling
Wear loose-fitting breathable clothing, body cooling vests, and water-cooled garments or wetted clothing. When available, use air conditioning, fans, and reflective or heat-absorbing shields or barriers.
Moderation and Recovery
Limit heavy work to 30 minutes per hour if the heat index is 84° to 93°, or 15 minutes if the index is 94° or above. Take frequent breaks in a cool, shady area.
Monitoring
All employees should be trained to know and quickly identify heat illness symptoms. It can be difficult to recognize when you're suffering the effects of heat stress, so implement a buddy system to watch out for each other.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms Include:
- Painful cramps, especially in the legs
- Flushed, moist skin
Management:
- Rest in a cool place
- Slowly, gently stretch out cramped muscles
- Hydrate and cool skin with cool cloths or fan
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms Include:
- Cool, most skin with goosebumps
- Heavy sweating
- Faintness or dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure when standing
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
Management:
- Rest in a cool place
- Rehydrate with water or cool sports drinks
- Cool skin with cool cloths or fan
Heat Stroke
Symptoms Include:
- Warm, dry skin
- Fever, often over 104° F (or 40° C)
- Rapid heart rate
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Lethargy or stupor
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- If untreated, seizures, coma, and death are possible
Management:
- Call 911. Heat stroke is life threatening and should be attended to by a doctor
- Rest in a cool place
- Place icebags on armpits or groin areas
- Cool skin with cool cloths or fan
- If responsive and able to drink, rehydrate with water or sports drinks
