To say it’s hot outside today would be an understatement. Our Safety Manager Cameron Desart has some tips on staying safe and preventing Heat Illness.
For many, summer is slowly coming to its end. But did you know that September is actually the hottest month of the year? As we approach this, I’d like to remind everyone to practice safety in the extreme heat. Every year, thousands of workers become sick from heat illness. OSHA mandates that employers are responsible for providing a workplace that is safe from excessive heat.
What is Heat Illness?
Heat illness, or heat-realed illness, is a spectrum of disorders, resulting from environmental heat exposure. 85˚ or higher is considered the “trigger point” when Heat Illness is most likely to occur.
What are the symptoms of Heat Illness?
Heat Illness can present in a variety of forms.
- Dizziness
- Excessive sweating, or red, hot, dry skin
- High body temperature
- Inability to perspire
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Thirsty
- Feeling Light Headed
What should I do if I think I’m experience Heat Illness?
- Utilize the buddy system; tell your partner you are feeling ill.
- go to the shade
- drink cool water
- If none of these work, call 911
For more information watch our video! https://youtu.be/h5aLuspRukA
You can also visit https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/