Recognizing Warning Signs of Heat Illness at Work

Written by SafeDE Consult Team | Jun 26, 2024 5:56:23 PM

Workers who spend long hours under the sun are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Laborers in the construction, utilities, and postal service industries are at increased risk, especially those working in warmer climates. The same can be said for cooks, firefighters, and oil and gas workers who also operate in hot environments with limited ventilation.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there has been a total of 436 deaths in the workplace due to environmental heat exposures since 2011. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers comprehensive guidelines to assist employers and workers in identifying and responding to heat-related ailments.

Stay Safe in the Heat, and understand the warning signs of heat illness.

Heat illness covers a range of conditions that occur when the body cannot cool itself effectively. These conditions range from mild to severe, have distinct symptoms, and require different responses. According to OSHA, here are examples of common heat-related conditions in the workplace:

Condition	Symptoms	Response
Heat Rash	Red clusters of small blisters or pimples, typically on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases.	Keep the affected area dry Use powder to increase comfort Avoid further exposure to heat
Heat Cramps	Muscle spasms or pain in the arms, legs, or abdomen.	Stop all activity and rest in a cool, ventilated place Drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate Do not resume strenuous activity until after the cramps disappear
Heat Exhaustion	Heavy sweating Weakness or fatigue Dizziness or confusion Nausea or vomiting Headache Increased thirst Increased irritability Moist or clammy skin Pale or flushed complexion Muscle cramps Fast and shallow breathing	Move to a cooler environment. Lie down and loosen any tight clothing Apply cool, wet cloth to as much of the body as possible. Sip water slowly Seek medical attention if the symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour
Heat Stroke	Body temperature above 103°F Hot, damp, red, or dry skin Rapid pulse or heart rate Possible unconsciousness Confusion Slurred speech Seizures	Call 911 immediately Transfer the person to a cooler environment with proper ventilation Lower body temperature using a cool bath or towel If the worker is unconscious, avoid giving them anything to drink
Muscle Breakdown (rhabdomyolysis)	Muscle pain Dark urine Reduced urination frequency Weakness	Call 911 immediately, as heat stroke is a medical emergency Move the person to a cooler environment Reduce body temperature with a wet towel or a cool bath Avoid giving an unconscious worker anything to drink

OSHA Guidelines for Preventing Heat Illness

1. Water, Rest, and Shade

OSHA emphasizes water, rest, and shade as the most important preventive measures against extreme heat exposures. Workers should have access to clean drinking water and be encouraged to drink water every 15 minutes, even if they are not thirsty. Regular breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area are essential for recovery from heat exposure.

2. Gradual Acclimatization

New workers or those returning from an absence should gradually increase their exposure to hot environments over 7-14 days. This allows the body to adapt to the heat and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.

3. Training

Employers should provide training on the symptoms of heat illness and the proper response. Workers need to understand the importance of hydration, early signs of heat illness, and how to provide first aid for heat-related conditions. OSHA provides multiple resources that raise awareness of the dangers of environmental heat exposure.

4. Monitoring

Employers must establish a system to monitor workers for signs of heat illness. This includes having supervisors trained to recognize symptoms and equipped to take appropriate action.

Extra attention must be given to employees who are new to working in hot environments. All symptoms experienced by new employees should be taken seriously during their first few days. Those who exhibit any signs should be allowed to pause from work and undergo evaluation for the potential heat-related conditions mentioned above.

5. Emergency Planning

Worksites should have a clear plan for emergencies, including how to summon medical help and how to cool a worker rapidly. Employees should know who to contact and what steps to take if someone shows signs of heat illness.

First Aid for Heat-Related Illnesses

OSHA’s Medical Services and First Aid standard requires the ready availability of first aid personnel and equipment. The following principles are involved in first aid for workers affected by heat-related conditions:

Move to a Cooler Area: Take the affected worker to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
Cool Immediately: Use techniques such as:
- Immersing in cold water or an ice bath.
- Removing outer clothing and heavy protective gear.
- Placing ice or cold, wet towels on key areas like the head, neck, trunk, armpits, and groin.
- Using fans to circulate air.
Do Not Leave Alone: Stay with the worker, as the condition can worsen rapidly.
Call 911: Especially if there is confusion, slurred speech, or unconsciousness, indicating heat stroke.

Recognizing the warning signs of heat illness in the workplace can prevent serious health issues and create a safer working environment. Employers are advised to comply with the OSHA guidelines referenced in this article to significantly reduce the risk of heat-related workplace incidents.

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