Safety Tidbit 8.08 – Heat Exhaustion Essentials

Safety Tidbit 8.08 – Heat Exhaustion Essentials

Reference: Heat exhaustion (2023) Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250 (Accessed: 03 May 2023).

 Jacob Richards, a Junior in the Safety, Health, and Environmental Applied Sciences Program at the Indiana University of PA, graduating in the Spring of 2024.

Going into the summer of 2023, we should all be aware of the symptoms, factors that can cause, and ways to prevent heat stress. Heat stress can be hazardous and could sneak up on you, whether working or picnicking outside. You also may only recognize the symptoms once it could be too late.

Heat stress is when too much heat is absorbed by the body. This can cause nausea, headaches, and heat strokes, and in some cases, it can kill you. When heat stress starts, you may not be aware of or feel any change in your daily living or while completing tasks. The first warning signal to look out for is the color of your urine. When working in heat, you will sweat; if personal protective equipment such as coveralls, gloves, or hardhat is required for your job, you may sweat more than others. This will cause the dehydration process to occur much quicker. When working in heat, you should be aware that you are dehydrated if you notice clammy skin, decreased urine output, dizziness, headaches, extreme thirst, or muscle cramps.

When working in a new area or during the summer and rising temperatures, you may be more likely to have heat stress. No one should ever wait for symptoms to arise to act on the issue, but if you start to notice you are having symptoms of heat stress, you should take a break, whether in another room or out of the sun. Replenish those liquids you are losing, and be sure to have some drinks that also include electrolytes. If the symptoms are more serious, you should immediately stop work and seek a health care specialist.

Overall, heat stress is a severe issue in the workplace and can happen to anyone. However, if proper precautions are taken at work, before and after the workday, this will decrease the likelihood of heat stress or heat exhaustion. Knowing the warning signs and ways to treat or prevent heat stress can help you live a healthy life and save your life.

I hope this was helpful, and thank you for reading my Safety Tidbits! Comments and questions are always welcome. ~ Bryan

 

P.S. Please let me know if you have a new safety or health question.