Hot Summer Temps and Health Risks
What to Look for and What to Do When It Gets Too Hot Outside
Aug 7, 2007
Heat illness -- the body’s inability to deal with heat and cool itself -- can be deadly. Employers with workers who spend much of their day outside or individuals who participate in outdoor activities need to pay close attention to avoid health risks.
According to CalOSHA here are some symptoms to look for and preventative measures that individuals and employers can take to reduce the chances of heat illness.
Heat stroke is by far the most serious heat illness as the body stops sweating and the individual can become delirious, lose consciousness, and convulse. The body temperature typically reaches 106 degrees F or higher and the skin becomes hot and dry. It may also be red or bluish in color. Victims will die if not treated promptly.
Heat exhaustion results when the individual loses too much fluid through sweating. This is why drinking plenty of water and taking salt tablets is vital. The victim will typically experience weakness, giddiness, nausea, and/or headache. The skin will be clammy, the complexion pale and the body temperature may be slightly above normal.
Heat cramps are painful spasms caused by drinking large quantities of water without replacing lost salt.
Heat rash may occur when sweat doesn’t evaporate as in hot, humid environments. This is often known as prickly heat and is commonly seen in babies or small children.
Those at greatest risk are infants and children up to the age of 4, along with adults over the age of 65, those who are overweight, and people taking certain medications.
Avoiding strenuous exercise in hot weather will go a long way in preventing heat illness. When going outside, be sure to wear appropriate lightweight clothing along with a hat and sunglasses. If a problem does occur, remember to:
Recognize the problem. It is important that everyone be able to recognize the signs of heat illness within themselves and others. To lessen the likelihood of encountering issues, acclimate to the environment slowly, allowing the body to become accustomed to the heat.
Get prompt medical attention. Immediately get into shade and cool the body as quickly as possible while waiting for emergency help to arrive.
Drink water. Don’t wait to be thirsty, drink at least one quart of liquid per hour. Avoid soda, alcohol and coffee. Drink water or sports drinks which add much needed sodium back into the body.
Get shade and rest breaks. Be sure to have easily accessible shade and take frequent rests in order to maintain a normal body temperature.
Develop policies and procedures. For employers it is important to develop and implement written safety policies and procedures which include heat training. Educate managers and supervisors on heat illness prevention to protect workers.
 |
