Summer Safety

Hot summer months pose special hazards for outdoors workers who must protect themselves against heat, sun exposure and other hazards. Employers and employees should know the potential hazards in their workplaces and how to manage them.

Normally, the body has ways of keeping itself cool, by letting heat escape through the skin, and by evaporating sweat (perspiration). If the body does not cool properly or does not cool enough, the victim may suffer a heat-related illness. Anyone can be susceptible although the very young and very old are at greater risk. Heat-related illnesses can become serious or even deadly if unattended.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Dress for the heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats.

Drink water.
Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine, which dehydrate the body.

Eat small meals and eat more often.
Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase metabolic heat.

Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician. Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Take regular breaks when engaged in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place. If you recognize that you, or someone else, are showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop activity and find a cool place. Remember most important stay cool!

Stay in cool shaded area whenever possible.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. It is the body's response to an excessive loss of the water and salt contained in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment.

Recognizing Heat Exhaustion

Warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. The body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Recognizing Heat Stroke

Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:

The most important thing to remember is to watch for signs and symptoms of heat stroke or exhaustion and seek prompt medical attention if you should feel ill while working outdoors.