Despite this past winter’s record cold temperatures across most of the country, summer, and the high temperatures and humidity it brings, will be here before you know it. It’s a great time to think about how you’ll avoid heat stress as the temperatures rise. Every year, thousands of workers become sick from heat exposure, and some even die. It’s crucial to know the warning signs of heat-related illnesses, and how to protect yourself against them.
Prolonged exposure to hot, humid conditions puts you at risk of heat illnesses. The risk increases if you’re doing heavy work tasks or wearing heavy, bulky clothing. Your body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating isn’t enough to cool down. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels if you don’t take the proper precautions.
Here’s what to be aware of when working in high temperatures and how to treat it:
Heat Cramps– Affects workers who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. Sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture levels.
Symptoms –
First Aid / Immediate Treatment –
Heat Exhaustion – The body’s response to the loss of water and salt, usually through sweating.
Symptoms –
First Aid / Immediate Treatment –
Heat Stroke – The most dangerous heat-related illness. This occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. It can cause death or permanent disability.
Symptoms –
First Aid / Immediate Treatment –
To help avoid these conditions, take the following preventative measures:
Over exposure to high heat and humidity can be dangerous. With the proper training and proper precautions to prevent heat-related illness, you can protect your health and the health of your co-workers. If you have questions about how any of our products can help you minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses, give our Technical Support Reps a call at 800.922.8553, or email techsupport@northernsafety.com. They’re here to help.