ESD 112 Insurance Programs Safety Talks
National Heat Awareness Day is observed annually on the last Friday of May. This day was founded as a reminder that working in hot weather can put you at risk of a serious heat-related illness, and even death.

During the summer months, employees should be especially aware of the dangers associated with working in high-temperature environments. Heat and humidity combined with physical exertion can do more than just make you uncomfortable. It can lead to a variety of heat-related illnesses. Awareness of heat-related illness symptoms can save your life or the life of a co-worker.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness/light headedness
  • Weakness
  • Mood changes (irritable or confused)
  • Feeling sick to your stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased and dark colored urine
  • Fainting; pale clammy skin

According to the Mayo Clinic, untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition.

If you suspect heat exhaustion, take these steps immediately:

  • Move the person out of the heat and into a shady or air-conditioned place
  • Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly
  • Remove tight or heavy clothing
  • Have the person sip chilled water, a decaffeinated sports drink containing electrolytes or other nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine
  • Cool the person by spraying or sponging with cool water and fanning
  • Monitor the person carefully
Contact a health care provider if signs or symptoms worsen or if the person doesn't improve after taking first-aid measures.

Heat Stroke Symptoms – A medical emergency, Dial 911 and seek immediate help if symptoms include:

  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Unconsciousness
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
  • Very high body temperature

Three key words - training, water and shade are at the heart of precautions that can prevent serious heat illnesses:
  • Provide annual training to employees and supervisors on symptoms of outdoor heat exposure and how to respond to emergencies,
  • Drink plenty of water when temperatures require preventive measures, and
  • Take your breaks in a cool shaded area and allow time for recovery from the heat during the day.

Other precautions include:
  • Acclimate yourself to the heat. If you are coming back to work from an illness or an extended break or starting a job working in the heat, it is important to be aware that you are more vulnerable to heat stress until your body has time to adjust.
  • Whenever possible, wear clothing that provides protection from the sun but allows airflow. Protect your head and shade your eyes if working outdoors.
  • Take care to limit caffeine intake and be aware of any side effects of medication you are taking that could increase the risk of heat-related illness.

May 1 through September 30, Washington state requires that all employers with employees exposed to outdoor temperatures above applicable levels implement a heat stress program. An Outdoor Heat Exposure Prevention Plan should be part of your district’s Accident Prevention Plan.

RESOURCES

If you have any questions, please contact Trista Greenwood at trista.greenwood@esd112.org or Wendy Niehaus at wendy.niehaus@esd112.org.
www.esd112.org/insurance
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