It’s Going To Get Hot Out There – 7/18/22
Safety E-QuickTips
U.S. Compliance Systems, Inc.
Monday Jul 18, 2022
It’s Going to Get Hot Out There
We’re coming up on the hottest time of year, so I thought a little reminder is in order.
A few years ago, we received an email from one of our clients asking us to provide information regarding drinking plenty of fluids because he knew that they were going to be experiencing warmer temperatures in the next few days than they had seen since last year.
To me that is what safety is all about – First recognizing a hazard then doing something to prevent exposure prior to an incident.
So today I’m going to review some ways you can help make sure your employees beat the heat and if heat is not an issue in your area, please take a moment and think about the specific hazard your employees may be exposed to this week and review it with them.
To beat the heat, there are many things that can be done. One of the most important things to do is to stay hydrated. Once a person has become dehydrated, things can go badly very fast. Heat exhaustion can become a very serious possibility that, if left untreated, could lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke is the most serious of heat-related illnesses and can cause brain damage and even death.
The best thing to do to prevent dehydration is to make sure that all employees are taking water breaks. During water breaks, it is a good idea to try and sit in a shaded area. Giving your body a cool down can really make a difference.
Dehydration is not the only way to get heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Just working too long and too hard in the sun can cause problems also. That is why taking breaks in the shade will help give you a little more energy to finish your workday and go home safe.
Another thing to do on hot days is to have everyone watch out for each other. Make sure that employees know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do if someone seems to be having a problem.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Excessive thirst
- Weakness
- Headache
- Dizziness/loss of consciousness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Muscle cramps
What to do:
- Get out of heat and into shade or air-conditioned area
- Drink fluids
- Remove any unnecessary clothing
- Use a fan or ice towel to cool off
- Call for medical assistance if symptoms remain after 30 minutes
The signs of heat stroke are very similar to heat exhaustion but can also include behavioral changes and lack of sweating despite the heat. Medical assistance should be sought right away if you suspect someone has heat stroke.
You can beat the summer heat if you make sure to stay hydrated, sit in the shade during breaks, and watch out for each other.
Employee QuickTip
Don’t let the heat put you in the hospital or even worse this year – Watchout for the symptoms of heatexhaustion and heat stroke and stay hydrated.
Employer/ManagementQuickTip
Make sure youhave plenty of potable water for employees to drink while on the joband make it a point to remind them to drink it. Their life may depend on it.
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Thanks for Reading and Please – Stay Healthy and Work Safe.
