Heat Illness Training

Course Duration: 30 Minutes

George Bunker LLC Learning Management System 

Introduction:

When working during hot weather, we may suffer heat exhaustion or sunstroke. Heat exhaustion is caused by the loss of body salt, and sunstroke occurs when the body mechanism is not able to keep the system cool.  The following are the symptoms of these ailments and the steps we should take to aid the victim.

Symptoms:

The first signs of heat exhaustion are dizziness, fast heartbeat, weakness, headache, blurred vision, nausea and staggering. The face becomes pale, there is profuse sweating, the pulse is weak, and breathing is shallow. The person may become unconscious.

Treatment:

When someone shows symptoms of heat exhaustion, immediately remove that person to a place where the air is circulating freely. Make the person lie down and keep him or her cool. If the victim is conscious, add a teaspoon of salt to a pint of cool water and give this to the victim in small sips at frequent intervals. If the heat exhaustion symptoms persist, call the doctor.

How to Avoid:

Keep in good physical condition and stop to rest when you begin to feel faint. Increase dietary salt and fluids when working in extremely hot weather.

Sunstroke or Heatstroke Symptoms:

The victim develops a severe headache, the face is red the skin is hot and dry, there is no sweating, and the pulse is strong and very rapid. The person has a high fever (103-106F.) and may become unconscious.  This is followed by convulsions, coma, and sometimes death.

Treatment:

Get the victim to where there's professional medical treatment as soon as possible. In the meantime, place the individual in the shade. Loosen the clothing and cool the victim with the best means available. If the individual's temperature starts to drop, cover with a light blanket, so that the sudden change in body temperature won't cause shivering or convulsions.

How to Avoid:

Stay away from alcoholic beverages. Instead, drink water, lemonade, or citrus fruit juices. Wear clothing that is lightweight, well ventilated, and loose.  Replace the body salts lost through perspiration by making sure your salt and fluid intake is adequate.

Know The Difference:

Become familiar with the symptoms of sun- stroke and heat exhaustion. As we've discussed, the treatment for each of these ailments is different and knowing the difference could mean life or death.

Importance of Acclimation to Hot Work Environments

Why Acclimation Matters

For employees new to outdoor work, especially during the summer months, acclimating to the heat is crucial for their safety and health. Sudden exposure to high temperatures can lead to serious heat-related illnesses, which can be dangerous and even fatal. Acclimation helps the body gradually adapt to increased temperatures, reducing the risk of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Risks of Inadequate Acclimation

Heat Stress: Can cause dehydration, fatigue, and muscle cramps.
Heat Exhaustion: Leads to heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and fainting.
Heat Stroke: A medical emergency characterized by high body temperature, confusion, loss of consciousness, and possible death if not treated promptly.
Protecting Workers from Heat

Gradual Acclimation Process

Start Slowly: Begin with short work periods in the heat, gradually increasing the duration over 7-14 days.
Increase Exposure: For new workers, start with 20% of the usual work duration in the heat on the first day, increasing by 20% each subsequent day.
Monitor Conditions: Keep track of temperature, humidity, and heat index to plan work schedules accordingly.
General Protection Measures

Hydration:
Encourage drinking water every 15-20 minutes, even if not thirsty.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate the body.
Clothing:
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
Use hats and UV-protective sunglasses.
Breaks:
Schedule frequent rest breaks in shaded or cool areas.
Use air-conditioned rest areas if available.
Sunscreen:
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect from harmful UV rays.
Work Scheduling:
Avoid strenuous tasks during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Rotate job functions to minimize heat exposure for each worker.
Recognizing and Responding to Heat Illness

Symptoms of Heat Illness

Heat Stress: Excessive sweating, thirst, muscle cramps.
Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, fast and weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, fainting.
Heat Stroke: High body temperature (above 103°F), hot, red, dry or moist skin, rapid and strong pulse, possible unconsciousness.

Emergency Response:

Move to Cooler Area: Immediately move the affected worker to a cooler, shaded area.
Hydrate: Provide water or electrolyte drinks if the worker is conscious and able to drink.
Cool Down: Use cool cloths, fans, or a cool bath to lower body temperature.

Seek Medical Help:

For heat exhaustion, monitor the worker closely and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
For heat stroke, call emergency services immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment.
Supervisor Responsibilities

Training: Ensure all employees are trained to recognize and respond to heat illness. This training is provided in the form of online CBT, safety alerts, and toolbox talks.
Procedures: Notify workers of the location of the heat illness prevention program- www.georgebunker.com. 

Monitoring: Regularly monitor workers for signs of heat-related illnesses, especially those new to the environment.

By following these guidelines, we can help new outdoor workers safely acclimate to summer heat, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensuring a safe and healthy work environment.