At this being not only summer time, but also being our Monsoon season, with working in the hot and humid days, certain precautions must be taken. Overexposure to high temperature and humidity levels during prolonged physical exertion may result in HEAT CRAMPS, HEAT EXHAUSTION, or HEAT STROKE. Working in very hot or poorly ventilated workspaces should be avoided during the peak heat hours of the day.

When the body is unable to cool itself through sweating, heat illnesses may occur. The most severe heat induced illnesses are HEAT EXHAUSTION and HEAT STROKE. If actions are not taken to treat HEAT EXHAUSTION, the illness could progress to HEAT STROKE and death.

At this time of year, with the high temperatures and high humidity, it is extremely important to remember to replace the fluids that you have lost, avoid long periods of sun exposure, try and use shading if possible, have a fan to help move air and keep you cooler. If you feel that you might be heading towards HEAT EXHAUSTION, you might place a cool damp towel over your head, on your neck, between your thighs, and even under your armpits, this will help in the lowering of your body core temperature.

I know that with working in the construction trades we cannot avoid working in the heat and the humidity, but we can do things that will help us to avoid HEAT EXHAUSTION, and HEAT STROKE, the main thing is to make sure you replace your fluids, and try to cool yourself down.

Here are the primary three categories and the signs to look out for:

HEAT CRAMPS – the first phase
Heat cramps are severe muscle spasms that often begin suddenly in the hands, calves, or feet, they are painful and disabling.

HEAT EXHAUSTION – the second phase
This causes excessive fluid loss, leading to fatigue, weakness, anxiety, low blood pressure, drenching sweat, faintness, and sometimes collapse.

HEAT STROKE – the third phase (sometimes called sunstroke)
Heat stroke is imminent when the body core approaches 106F, a higher temperature may result in coma, or even death. The symptoms to look for are; dizziness, weakness, nausea/vomiting, confusion, blurred vision, collapse, and unconsciousness.

Len
Safety Director