Heat Stress – In Construction-Know the Signs and How to Prevent Them

Every year, at least 300 people die from heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. It’s critical that everyone understand the risks of heat stress and how to protect themselves against this danger.

Heat-related illness and heat stress result from physical activities in hot or humid environments. Several conditions are associated with heat-related illness and heat stress, including:

Dehydration-When your body loses water, you can't cool off fast enough. You feel thirsy and weak.
Heat rash – tiny raised red blistery rash caused by skin being constantly wet and plugged sweat glands
Heat cramps – an early warning sign of heat stress. Usually occurs in the legs or abdomen and is caused by excessive loss of water and electrolytes
Heat exhaustion – pale skin, excessive sweating, headache, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, and dizziness. Victims may faint, but usually remain conscious
Heat stroke is the most severe type of heat stress and can result in death if not detected and treated early.

Some of the early warning signs include:
Headache
Dizziness or fainting
Confusion or disorientation
Mood swings (may seem violent or act intoxicated)
Rapid heart rate
Dark yellow urine (dehydration)
Redness of skin
Swollen lips
Chills

OSHA recommends that you take these essential actions to protect yourself in hot environments:
• Consider your physical fitness to work in a hot environment
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day – at least one quart per hour
• Wear light-colored clothing, made of cotton
• When possible, avoid scheduling the heaviest work at the hottest time of the day
• Recognize and treat the signs of heat-related stress
• If you think some has heat stroke, Call emergency services (or 911)

The combination of heat, humidity, and people can be deadly. With the proper training and proper precautions to prevent heat-related illness, you can protect your health and the health of your co-workers.