Heat Stress Can Be a Killer - Stay Safe!
Heat stress isn't just uncomfortable—it's dangerous. On average, 702 people die and 67,512 visit emergency rooms each year in the U.S. due to heat-related issues (CDC). Beyond heat stroke, heat stress can lead to accidents at work from loss of focus or extreme fatigue.
Heat-Related Illnesses (Source: WebMD)
- Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps, spasms, or jerks. Can occur during or after intense work or exercise in the heat.
- Heat Exhaustion:
- Water depletion: Excessive thirst, weakness, headache, loss of consciousness.
- Salt depletion: Nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness.
- Heat Stroke: The most serious heat-related illness. Prolonged high temperatures and dehydration lead to the body's temperature control failing. Symptoms include fainting, headache, dizziness, lack of sweating, vomiting, and behavioral changes like confusion. Heat stroke can be fatal or cause severe organ damage.
Medical Response:
- Heat Exhaustion: Move the person to shade, give water or sports drinks, and have them rest for the day.
- Heat Stroke: Call 911 immediately. Cool the person with cool (not ice-cold) water and remove unnecessary clothing. Keep them in a shaded area and fan until help arrives.
Safe Work Practices:
- Acclimate to hot environments before starting strenuous work. This takes about two weeks.
- Drink plenty of water. You lose about 27-47 oz. of sweat per hour during intense labor—more than a typical 16.9 oz. water bottle!
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or air-conditioned areas.
Summary:
Take heat stress seriously. Know the signs and symptoms. Have a plan to get medical attention quickly, especially for heat stroke—it can mean the difference between life and death.
