Summer Heat in the Workplace
August is usually the hottest summer month in Southern California. Heat related illnesses are extremely dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the proper precautions are not followed. If employees will be working in conditions where temperatures are expected to reach 85 degrees or higher, it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure all possible safety precautions are being taken.
Heat related illnesses are caused by prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. While employees working outdoors are prone to heat related illness, it is not strictly an outdoor work problem. Employees working indoors are also vulnerable to heat related problems. It is important to remember that anytime the temperature rises above 80 degrees you are at risk.
There are five different types of heat related illness:
- Heat cramps
- Heat rash
- Heat stroke
- Heat syncope
- Heat exhaustion
Heat cramps are generally not fatal but should still be taken seriously. If left untreated they can become a serious problem. Symptoms include pain occurring in the arms, legs and abdomen and muscle spasms. When heat cramps occur it is important to drink lots of water and get to a cooled rest area.
Heat rash is another heat related problem that is not fatal by itself. Symptoms include clusters of red bumps on the upper chest, neck and folds of skin. If heat rash is suspected, do your best to keep the area dry and if possible, perform work duties in a cooler, less humid environment.
Heat stroke is far more serious than the previous problems. There are several symptoms of heat stroke that can go unnoticed because the person affected assumes they are simply hot due to rising temperatures. Symptoms include excessive sweating, flushed skin, dry skin, high body temperature, confusion, seizures and fainting. If you notice any of these symptoms it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Heat stroke can be fatal.
Heat syncope is fainting caused by prolonged exposure to heat. This can occur when an employee has been standing in a hot environment for a prolonged period or when a person stands too quickly from a seated position. Symptoms include lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting. Medical attention must be sought immediately.
One of the most common heat related illnesses is heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs as a natural response to excessive loss of salt and water. Symptoms include excessive sweating, paleness of skin, slightly elevated body temperature, fatigue, dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, muscle cramps, muscle pain, nausea, headache, moist skin, shallow breathing and racing pulse. When heat exhaustion is suspected, immediate medical attention must be sought.
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