Beat the Heat

Preparation is vital when it comes to preventing heat-related illness among those who work outside during the summer months.

Given the dangers associated with a “heated” workplace, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) urges employees and employers, alike, to heed the possible dangers of summertime heat and to use precautions aimed at reducing injuries and fatalities.

In a June 2003 ASSE article titled “Be Cool: Proper Attire Helps Prevent Heat Stress,” Julie Copeland, a vice president with Arbill Industries noted that warm-weather workers – such as those who do landscaping, road repair, construction, surface mining and roofing and utility repair – are at risk for heat-related illness.

"To protect workers from heat-related illnesses it is important to recognize the signs. Some of the physical effects of heat stress range from heat exhaustion, headache, dizziness, upset stomach, to severe – heatstroke, dry, pale skin, no sweating, hot/red skin, and seizures," noted ASSE President James 'Skipper' Kendrick. "In addition, alertness and productivity may also suffer. Another danger from the heat is sweat as it may cause tools to slip out of a worker's hands and increase the potential for electrical shock. It is important to be aware of the risk and of the precautions one can take."

Cooling pads can be worn to keep the head and neck cool and reduce the negative affect of heat. Vented hats are another possibility for preventing heat buildup. Neckbands soaked in cold water and worn during the day can help prevent the body's pulse points from overheating, and, wearing cooling vests may also provide relief.

Protective eyewear featuring sufficient ventilation or anti-fog lens coatings is recommended for use in hot environments to reduce lens fogging from the heat.

Gloves for hand protection can be cumbersome and increase the outdoor warmth. In her article, Copeland suggested workers use gloves that offer breathability. She noted that gloves with leather palms and cotton or denim backs allow for increased airflow, while still providing protection. Some gloves feature strips of nylon mesh or perforations at the back of the hand.

Water loss and dehydration are other major hazards for employees working in a hot environment. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), workers may produce up to two to three gallons of sweat each day. NIOSH recommends that workers drink five to seven ounces of fluids every 15 to 20 minutes to replenish the body. Drinks that replace electrolytes (such as sports drinks) lost through perspiration are also effective.

Additionally, it is recommended that workers drink cool water, which is more readily absorbed in the body, and avoid coffee, tea, alcohol or soda, which act as diuretics that further deplete the body of fluid. The amount of sodium in the electrolytic drink should be monitored, as high sodium concentrations may impact employees with elevated blood pressure.

Copeland also observed that limiting work to the coolest parts of the day and allowing workers to take frequent breaks in cooler areas is important. Employers should educate employees about the dangers caused by excessive heat as well.