Combating Heat Illness

​With Summer now in full swing, higher temperatures, higher humidity, and longer exposure to the sun are all major factors of Heat Illnesses. With nearly 75% of heat-related fatalities happening during the first week of exposure, knowing the major symptoms and the ways to mitigate their effects are the keys to keeping workers safe while outdoors. Let's take a look at two major heat-related factors and the best ways to combat their effects.
 
Dehydration
When your body begins losing more fluid than you are taking in is when dehydration starts to affect your body. The biggest factors for dehydration include fluid intake, climate, and direct sun exposure. The safe practices to follow for combating dehydration include:

• Fluids Every 20 Minutes
  • Drink at least one cup of cold water or electrolyte fluid every 20 minutes even when you are not thirsty. This will keep fluid levels replenished throughout the day
• Dress For the Weather
  • Wear loose-fit, breathable, light colored clothing and hats to shade yourself from the sun. Reducing direct sun exposure also helps reduce the risks of sunburn

 
Heat Stressors
As the first stages of Heat Illness, Heat Stressors are when your body begins to overheat leading to rashes, muscle cramps, and nausea. Since these are the first signs that your body is beginning to overheat, spotting the symptoms right away can be critical. Some ways to alleviate Heat Stressors include:

• Follow the 20% Rule
  • Acclimate yourself to weather changes. Begin at 20% intensity in the heat and slowly increase each day until you are fully acclimated
• Take Breaks
  • Allow your body to recover by finding a shady place to cool off when rehydrating. This will allow your body to help maintain its internal temperature and keep Heat Illness away
• Watch Out for One Another
  • Know how to spot symptoms in yourself and others. If symptoms persist or increase to dangerous conditions (loss of consciousness) have a plan in place to recover and seek medical assistance

 
Making sure you stay hydrated while easing into working conditions will be some of the best ways to combat Heat Illness and its harmful effects on the body. To keep the conversation going, download the Heat Stress Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.

Heat Stress TBT