Safety Update

Safety Update: Summer Safety

The summer season is in full swing which means long hot days outside. But as temperatures and humidity go up, so does the risk of heat-related illness. Sweating heavily without replacing fluids can lead to dehydration or heat cramps. If the body cannot cool itself, there is a risk of heat exhaustion and, in extreme cases, heat stroke which can lead to a medical emergency or death.

Heat, humidity and physical labour are the perfect combination for heat illnesses in workers. It is important to know the symptoms and treat them before they move to the next level of severity.

The first signs and symptoms a heat related illness are caused by dehydration. The symptoms include:

• Dry or sticky mouth,
• Thirst,
• Low or no urine output,
• Headaches,
• Dizziness,
• Cramps,
• Fatigue; and
• Chills.

The second level, and more serious illness caused by a worker overheating, is heat exhaustion. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Muscle weakness,
• Severe dehydration,
• Fainting but can be revived,
• Heavy sweating; and
• Nausea or vomiting.

Finally, the most serious heat related illness is heat stroke. Heat stroke is considered a serious medical emergency and should be dealt with immediately by calling 911. Some symptoms of heat stroke are:

• Extremely high core temperature of up to 106°F (41°C),
• Hot, red, dry skin,
• Rapid pulse,
• Rapid, shallow breathing,
• Headache,
• Confusion, strange behavior; and
• Possible loss of consciousness.

High core temperatures damage the internal organs, especially the brain. The fluid loss can also produce dangerously low blood pressure. Most people who are killed by heat stroke die when their heart stops pumping effectively (circulatory failure). Even people who survive are likely to have permanent brain damage if their core temperature has been over 40.6°C (105°F) for more than an hour or two.

The key to prevention and treatment of heat related illnesses are cooling measures to include:

• Cool, non-alcoholic beverages, as directed by your physician,
• 1 glass of cool water every 20 minutes,
• Rest,
• Cool shower, bath, or sponge bath,
• An air-conditioned environment; and
• Lightweight clothing.

If you have a suggestion for a Safety Update topic please send us an email at info@ecompliance.ca

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eCompliance provides information about topical OH&S issues to assist existing and potential customers to cope with their own OH&S needs. It is not intended to be legal information or legal advice. Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a lawyer if you want professional assurance that our information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate to your particular situation.