Summer will soon be here and it is time to think about risks to your employees while working outdoors. It is important to prevent or mitigate hazards that may arise due to warm weather, such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, insect bites and overexposure to the sun.
Hortica Insurance has been serving the horticultural industry for over 116 years. During that time, our loss control representatives have helped many clients avoid warm weather-related problems.
Based on our observations, the most common risks during the summer months fall into a few categories. Keeping employees aware of these hazards and insisting upon preventative measures can help you avoid losses.
HEAT STROKE. When temperatures are above 90 degrees, humidity is high and if you work outdoors in the sun, it can be difficult to stay cool. You can suffer from heat cramps, heat exhaustion and, in some cases, heat stroke, which can be severe enough to cause brain damage or even death. Heat stroke warning symptoms include:
If you or an employee is experiencing these symptoms, contact emergency personnel right away. Apply a cool wet cloth to victim’s head, armpits, groin and chest areas. Use a fan and/or cold packs if available. Keep the victim lying down with his or her feet raised.
To avoid heat stroke, take frequent breaks and rink plenty of cool water or sports drinks. Even when you’re not thirsty, your body is losing fluids, which need to be replaced. If you know you’ll be exposed to greater heat or humidity than normal, spend time in similar conditions for several days to help your body adjust.
HEAT EXHAUSTION. Heat exhaustion is more difficult to diagnose than heatstroke; however, it is far less serious unless ignored. The onset of heat exhaustion is usually accompanied by dizziness, faintness, fatigue, weakness, anxiety and nausea. The skin can turn cool and moist, and often the victim will experience drenching sweats. Heat exhaustion can lead to circulatory collapse, with symptoms including a slow pulse, cold pale and clammy skin and disorientation followed by unconsciousness.
If an employee suffers from heat exhaustion, he or she should be moved to a cool or shady area. Place the victim flat or with his or her head slightly down. When the victim starts responding, small amounts of sugar water can be given. Apply a cool, damp cloth or use a fan, if available, to help cool down the victim.
To avoid heat exhaustion, follow these tips:
INSECT STINGS. Insect stings are another concern during the summer months. One of the most worrisome insect bites is the bee sting. Although bees do not normally attack unless provoked, it is still best to avoid them if possible. Follow these tips to avoid being stung by a bee:
If you or an employee should have a reaction to a bee sting, seek emergency help as soon as possible. Symptoms of a reaction can include a rash, shortness of breath, wheezing, dizziness, a swollen face and fatigue.
Multiple stings can cause vomiting, diarrhea, headache or fever. These symptoms are not as serious, but a doctor should be consulted.