Working in high-heat conditions can have dangerous health effects on those who are unprepared. Exposure to high temperatures for long periods of time can increase the chance of illnesses such as sunburn, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or heat cramps. These illnesses can range from mild to severe and sometimes can result in death. Knowing what to do to prepare for and prevent these heat-related illnesses is better than having to treat them. To work comfortably and avoid getting overheated, check the day’s weather and make sure you’re properly dressed for the predicted conditions. Wear a hat, appropriate loose-weave cotton clothing that covers your exposed skin and your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays by using sunscreen and wearing sunglasses. Know where drinking water or other cold drinks are located. Drink about two glasses of water before beginning work and continue to drink water during and afterward work to replace fluids you’ll lose through sweating. Increase your intake of fluids (one to two quarts per hour) during high temperatures, especially when temperatures, especially when temperatures are above 100 degrees Fahrenheit and during periods of unusually high humidity. Avoid alcohol, it adds to dehydration and increases your risk of heat-related illness. Stay alert for early symptoms of excessive exposure to heat and let your supervisor know if you’re feeling ill, weak, or faint. Make sure there are other qualified persons available who can recognize and give you first aid if you do become ill. Know how to respond or quickly contact medical help if you notice a coworker showing signs of heat illness.

Supervisors can do their part in heat illness prevention by checking the day’s temperatures and managing the work activities accordingly – setting up rest breaks in shaded areas, rotating tasks, scheduling heavy work for cooler hours and postponing non-essential tasks during heat spells. They should monitor the condition of workers; do they show signs of illness or drug or alcohol use? Older workers or those who are obese, pregnant, or take prescribed medication are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Working in high-heat conditions can be done safely, if you’re prepared by dressing correctly, staying hydrated, taking breaks, and recognizing signs of over-heating.

Source: State Compensation Fund