Workplace Safety in the Summer: How to Prevent Heat Illness

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Acclimatization: The 20% Rule

As an insurance company, Tower Street Insurance is committed to promoting safety and well-being in the workplace. With summer upon us, it’s crucial to monitor the risks associated with heat exposure and understand how to prevent heat-related illnesses at work.

Heat-related illnesses can occur both indoors and outdoors, and they pose a significant risk to workers’ health. In fact, nearly 75% of fatalities from heat illness occur during the first week of work. This statistic underscores the importance of acclimatization, the process of gradually adapting to heat.

New and returning workers should start with no more than 20% of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat on their first day. Each subsequent day, they can increase their time at full intensity by no more than 20%. This gradual increase allows workers to build a tolerance to heat, reducing the risk of heat illness.

Hydration Is Key

Staying hydrated is crucial when working in hot conditions. Workers should drink cool water every 20 minutes even if they’re not thirsty. This regular intake of fluids helps maintain the body’s temperature and prevent dehydration, a common cause of heat illness.

In a heat-intensive environment, it’s important for workers to monitor themselves and their colleagues for signs of heat illness. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, heavy sweating, hot or dry skin, elevated body temperature, thirst, and decreased urine output.

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Rest and Recovery

Taking regular breaks is another essential strategy for preventing heat illness. Workers should have enough time to recover from the heat, considering the temperature, humidity, and other conditions. Breaks should be taken in a designated shady or cool location whenever possible.

Wearing appropriate clothing can also help protect against heat illness. Hats, light-colored clothing, loose-fitting garments, and breathable fabrics can all help keep the body cool. If workers are wearing face coverings, they should change them if they become wet or soiled.

First Aid for Heat Illness

In the event of a heat-related illness, immediate action is necessary. If a worker exhibits signs of a medical emergency, such as abnormal thinking or behavior, slurred speech, seizures, or loss of consciousness, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, cool the worker with water or ice and stay with them.

At Tower Street Insurance, we believe that prevention is the best policy. By implementing these strategies, employers can create a safer working environment and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. For more information on workplace safety, visit http://www.osha.gov/heat or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). Remember, every worker has the right to a safe workplace, and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that right is upheld.

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