Tips for Workers to Beat the Heat

Endless days of record-breaking heat are already underway in the mid-west this summer.  These hot summer days are a burden on anyone out in the sun, but particularly difficult for those laboring outside.  Heat stress and exposure to dangerously hot working environments can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration and heat stroke.  Sweaty palms, fogged safety glasses or dizziness can also increase the likely hood of on-the-job injuries.

It’s important for employees to be mindful of the weather while working and take the proper precautions to ward off heat-related illness.  The following tips from the American Red Cross can help workers and everyone else stay safe this summer:

❏ Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.
❏ Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
❏ Eat small meals and eat more often.
❏ Avoid extreme temperature changes.
❏ Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
❏ Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, if possible.
❏ When working in the heat, use a buddy system.  Check on other employees regularly and remind each other to keep drinking water.
❏ Take frequent breaks when working outdoors.
❏ Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who
are more likely to be affected by the heat.

❏ Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion.

• Move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition.

• If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself.

❏ Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature.

• Heat stroke is life-threatening. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.

• Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion.

• If needed, continue rapid cooling by applying ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits.