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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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- 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:
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- 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.
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