Public Employee Press

Summer heat can be a hazard

By GUILLE MEJIA
DC 37 Safety Dept.

The hazards of hot environments hit workers year round, especially those who work in kitchens and laundries, but summer's high temperatures and humidity
can lead to heat disorders for outdoor workers.

Predicting who will be affected and when is difficult, because sensitivity to heat depends on many personal factors, such as age, weight, physical fitness, acclimatization, metabolism and use of medications. Compounding this are environmental factors including air temperature, air movement, humidity, other heat sources and the type of work involved.

Heat disorders such as heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, collapse, rashes, and fatigue can be mild or fatal. It is important to recognize the symptoms and take action promptly. To protect workers from heat hazards, employers should put in place procedures:

• Develop an acclimatization program where workers are exposed gradually to hot environments. This gives the body time to adapt to the heat to some extent.
• Provide cool water or nonalcoholic
  liquids and encourage workers to drink small amounts frequently.
• Allow for frequent rest breaks in cooler environments or provide recovery areas such as air-conditioned spaces.
• Train workers to understand the hazards of heat, recognize the symptom, and use the measures their employers have implemented to prevent illness and injuries from heat stress.
• Reduce the physical demands of work, such as excessive lifting, digging or carrying heavy objects.
• Schedule the work during cooler parts of the day, early morning or evening.