Safety Tip: Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is most likely the culprit when a worker experiences an excessive loss of water and salt and is sweating profusely. Among those most prone to heat exhaustion are employees who work in hot environments such as laundry, grounds, cooks, and maintenance, or who have high blood pressure or who are elderly.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness, confusion
• Clammy, moist skin
• Pale or flushed complexion
• Fast and shallow breathing
• Extreme weakness or fatigue
• Slightly elevated body temperature

According to the Arizona Department of Health Statistics, nearly 1,500 people in Arizona died between 1992 and 2009 from exposure to excessive natural heat due to weather conditions.

Employees working in hot environments should be trained in first-aid treatment of heat exhaustion. When workers succumb to heat exhaustion:

• Place them in a cool, shaded or air conditioned are to rest.
• Help them drink plenty of water or other cool non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.
• If possible, have them take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.

Some common myths about heat stress are:

• Medications and health conditions don't affect one's ability to work safely in the heat. Health and medication can affect how the body handles working in high temperatures. Workers at risk in high temperatures are those who are obese and/or have diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Medications to control these ailments can affect a body's ability to cool down.
• Unlike heat exhaustion, there is no sweating with heat stroke. Workers suffering from heat stroke may continue to produce sweat, as well as to show symptoms of confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures and high body temperature. Heat stroke is life-threatening and must be dealt with immediately: give first-aid treatment and call 911 for medical help.
• Using salt tablets will restore electrolytes lost to sweating. Do not use salt tablets unless a doctor approves their use. Workers should drink small amounts of water (1 cup per 15-20 minutes) to maintain good hydration. Eating regular meals and snacks provides enough salt and electrolytes to replace those lost through sweating, as long as enough water is consumed. However, drinking extreme amounts of water is harmful; workers should generally not drink more than 12 quarts (48 cups) in a 24-hour period.
• Taking a work break in an air-condition are will ruin workers' acclimation. Air-conditioned break areas offer an effective way to cool down.

For more information and tips on how to avoid heat exhaustion visit www.copperpoint.com and search for “Heat Stress”.

Source: CDC, NIOSH

Author Info: Cheryl Knupp

Cheryl Knupp is the Senior VP of Health Services here at beatitudes campus. Learn more about Beatitudes