According to the OSHA, 5 to 10
million workers are exposed to heat-related illnesses each year. If you are looking for ways to help employees understand the hazards and protect against heat stress, consider these tips from Cintas Corp.:
- Understand heat stress, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. “Heat cramps are painful spasms. Heat exhaustion is a state of weakness, fatigue and dizziness. Heat stroke, the most severe, is a condition resulting in highly elevated body temperature. All are intensified by high temperature and humidity, direct sun or heat, limited air movement, physical exertion, poor physical health and more,” Cintas explains.
- Dress properly. Lightweight, light-colored and loose clothing is important when temperatures are high. PPE with moisture- wicking properties is also recommended.
- Drink fluids frequently. “Feeling thirsty is a sign of dehydration,” Cintas says. “One quart of cool water per hour and no more than 3 gallons per day is recommended for workers dealing with extreme heat.”
- Rest. Take frequent breaks in a cool, shaded area and focus on drinking more liquids during the break.
- Eat right. Avoid large, hot meals, the group says, but don’t skip meals because food helps the body recover electrolytes lost through perspiration.
- Assess your environment. Take note of the weather, the amount of physical labor involved, the length of the workday and any medical conditions that can be aggravated by heat.
- Watch for signs of heat stress. Heat cramps result in abnormal body posture and cause a person to grasp the affected area. Heat exhaustion causes extreme sweating, paleness in the face, unsteady walking and moist skin. Heat stroke is noted by mental confusion, convulsions, fainting and dry skin.
- Know emergency response. “When heat stress occurs, determine its extent by asking the person his/her name, the date and location,” Cintas says. “If the person is unsure, call 9-1-1 immediately. Then, move the worker to a cooler area, loosen clothing, provide drinking water, and fan or mist them with water.” Visit for more tips and information.