Rising summer temperatures and prolonged sun and heat exposure can lead to many heat-related illnesses, so it’s important to take smart steps to stay well. Employees who work outdoors or in hot environments, such as construction workers, farmers, firefighters, boiler room workers or factory workers, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
Not everyone tolerates high heat the same way. What may feel fine for one person could be a high-risk situation for another. People 65 and older and those with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure are at greater risk of heat stress. Prevention is critical in protecting yourself and others from the heat. Here are some terms and tips to help navigate the dangers of summer heat.
Summer Heat-Related Illnesses
Certain illnesses and conditions are more prevalent during the summer season, including:
- Asthma
- Dehydration
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat rash and skin irritation
- Heatstroke
- Mumps
- Sunburn
Heat-Related Emergencies
It’s important to know the signs of a heat-related emergency, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when a person experiences excessive loss of water and salt due to exposure to high temperatures and strenuous activity from sweating.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include:
- Clammy skin
- Decreased urine output
- Dehydration
- Dizziness
- Extreme thirst
- Fainting
- Headache
- Heavy sweating
- High blood pressure
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weak or rapid pulse
- Weakness or tiredness
Heatstroke
When your body cannot control its internal temperature, it’s known as heatstroke. Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency. Getting medical care as soon as possible is important. Call 911 and get to your nearest emergency room if you or an employee experience the following symptoms:
- Altered behavior, such as slurred speech or staggering
- Agitation, confusion, irritability, disorientation or delirium
- Body temperature of 104°F or higher
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dry skin rather than sweaty
- Flushed or red skin
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Seizures or coma
- Throbbing headache
Tips To Prevent Heat-Related Workplace Hazards
Here are some tips to help minimize your employees’ risk of heatstroke or other heat-related hazards:
- Keep a supply of fresh water on hand: Staying hydrated is extremely important while working in the heat.
- Monitor your team’s physical conditions: Look for signs of heat-related illnesses, such as clammy skin, fainting muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting.
- Provide a source of shade: Whether it’s an indoor area, a large tent, a garage or a covered patio space, give your employees a place to escape the sun when needed.
- Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE): Safety helmets with longer brims can help block out the sun, for example.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends employers limit their employees’ time outside during the day’s peak temperature window. Additionally, encourage your employees to take more breaks or work in cooler areas during periods of extreme heat.
The sun’s ultraviolet rays are more intense during the summer, so it’s important for everyone on your team to wear sunscreen, even if they don’t work in direct sunlight.
We Help Keep Your Employees Safe and Well
We know how valuable your team members are to you and your business. With more than 40 years of experience, our occupational health services at AdventHealth Centra Care will provide your employees the expert, experienced care they deserve to keep working safely, efficiently and well.
At Centra Care, we provide a wide range of occupational health services to both public and private employers. Visit us here to learn how we can support your employees’ well-being in body, mind and spirit.
