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Article Written By: Zenith Insurance Company
The above average temperatures we are experiencing in Florida this year are causing an increase in heat-related illnesses. The key to prevention is awareness.
Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses
There are important steps employers can take before anyone heads out to work for the day:
- Stay informed on the local weather forecast, especially if high temperatures are predicted.
- On abnormally hot and humid days, try to limit strenuous work to the cooler early morning or evening hours, or reschedule work altogether if possible.
- Monitor workers who are performing more strenuous jobs. They may need to take additional breaks on extremely hot days.
- Encourage workers to "pre-load" (drink) water. A big part of the effectiveness of a heat-related illness prevention program rests with training management and employees on how to take care in hot weather.
Training is Key
Supervisory staff should be trained to:
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat illness. Remember that the signs and symptoms often mimic other health conditions such as heart attacks. A person suffering from heat illness may also appear disoriented or even intoxicated (see training box).
- Provide immediate care and first aid to those showing symptoms.
- Know how and when to transport employees for emergency medical care.
- Know the location/address where work is taking place so the emergency response team can locate them.
- Take steps for acclimatizing workers to the hot weather. It can take five to seven working days to adjust to working in hot weather.
Employees should be trained to:
- Drink fluids before, during and after work to stay hydrated.
- Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine; they can increase dehydration.
- Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses in themselves and others, and let someone know if they or their co-workers are not feeling well.
- Understand environmental and personal risk factors for heat illness.
- Know the importance of acclimatization.
- Take sufficient rest breaks in a shady or cool area, especially if they are not used to the heat.
- Wear a hat and white or light-colored cotton clothing.
For an employee exhibiting signs of a heat-related illness:
- Have the employee rest in the shade or a cool environment.
- Help the employee cool down by fanning and applying damp towels.
- Provide fluids, but only if they are conscious.
- Call 911 for medical help if an employee is exhibiting extreme symptoms or is unconscious (see chart below).
Zenith Insurance Company (Zenith) assists employers in evaluating workplace safety exposures. Any recommendations and related services are not and should not be construed as legal advice or be used as a substitute for legal advice. Employee protection is ultimately the responsibility of the employer.
This article was written by TheZeneth.com- Workers Compensation Specialists.
  
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