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Heat Stress

Heat Stress. Recognition & Management. Heat stress is the buildup of body heat due to exertion in warm or hot environments. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke result when the body is subjected to more heat than it can cope with. Heat Stress.

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Heat Stress

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  1. Heat Stress Recognition & Management

  2. Heat stress is the buildup of body heat due to exertion in warm or hot environments.Heat exhaustion and heat stroke result when the body is subjected to more heat than it can cope with. Heat Stress

  3. Heat stroke kills an average of 500 people/year in the U.S.. Heat related illnesses affect many, many more. Heat stress can lead to infertility in men, cause heart attacks, falls, and equipment accidents. Heat stressed workers become weaker, less alert, less able to use good judgement, and therefore their job performance suffers. Heat Stress

  4. Preventing Heat Illness Protects health - Heat illness is preventable. Improves safety Increases productivity Is a requirement of the Worker Protection Standard and employers are responsible.

  5. Recognizing Heat Stress Some symptoms are similar to OP poisoning. Sweating, fatigue, headache, nausea, loss of coordination, confusion Some symptoms are different. Dry mouth, no tears or saliva, fast pulse, dilated pupils

  6. Key Elements Water- Drink plenty of water. Minimum of 1/2 pint every 30 minutes. Start drinking before working. Clothing - Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a wide- brimmed hat. Acclimatization- Gradually adjust to working in the heat. Rest Breaks - Take periodic breaks in a shaded or air conditioned area when possible. Monitoring Workers - Employers should monitor workers when they are working in the heat.

  7. Heat Affects People Differently People come in many shapes and sizes and with different tolerances for heat. As a result, heat affects different people in different ways: some people can work comfortably at higher temperatures while others get sick from heat stress.

  8. Characteristics Leading to Heat Sensitivity Very small body size. Poor nutrition Overweight Over 40 years old (the older, the more sensitive) Previous heat illness Heart disease High blood pressure Diabetes Skin disease Liver, kidney, and lung problems

  9. Controlling Heat Stress 1. Train workers and supervisors in prevention, recognition, and treatment of heat stress. 2. Acclimatize workers when they begin work in hot environments. Adjust gradually. 3. Take into account weather, PPE, how strenuous the activity is, and age or condition of worker. 4. Manage work activities to avoid heat stress (work during cooler parts of the day).

  10. Controlling Heat Stress 5. Establish a drinking water program. 6-10 quarts per person per day. Start drinking water before beginning work. 6. Take additional measures as appropriate. Select lightest weight or “breathable” PPE Provide special cooling garments (vests, headbands) Provide shade or air conditioning 7. Give first aid when workers become ill.

  11. First Aid for Heat Illness Early heat illness - Loosen or remove clothing, rest in shade for 30 min or more, and drink water. Heat rash - clean skin, apply cornstarch, wear loose clothing, see doctor if rash persists. Heat cramps - Loosen clothing, drink lightly salted beverages, massage, rest.

  12. First Aid for Heat Illness Heat Exhaustion - Move to cooler, shaded area as quickly as possible. Rest lying down, drink as much water as possible. Do not give salt. Loosen or remove clothing, splash cold water on body, and massage arms and legs. Treat for heat stroke until proven otherwise. Symptoms: fatigue, headache, dizziness, loss of coordination, profuse sweating, pale and cool skin, dry mouth, dark yellow urine, fast pulse, cramps, slurred speech, confusion, rapid breathing, irritability.

  13. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency. It can occur suddenly and the symptoms include: headache, dizziness, confusion, irrational or very aggressive behavior, rapid breathing, fast pulse (if conscious), convulsions, nausea, incoherent speech.Can induce a coma in the affected person.

  14. First Aid for Heat Stroke Move to shaded area. Remove outer clothing and immediately wrap in wet sheet, pour water on and fan vigorously. After temp. is lowered treat for shock, if present,. Prevent choking on vomit by clearing mouth and nose. Transport to nearest medical facility immediately. Continue cooling procedures during transport. If conscious, have person drink water. Do not give salt.

  15. Remember: The Worker Protection Standard (WPS) and other government regulations require agricultural employers to take steps to avoid heat illness for their employees.

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