It’s HOT HOT HOT! As the heat continues this summer, outside workers and some indoor workers need to remain extremely cautious. Heat illnesses are very common especially this time of the year, but can be avoidable.
According to the Steel Erectors of America, heat-related illnesses can include the following:
- Heat Rash: Caused by clogged skin pores that hold in sweat. This prevents the body from cooling down and causing a skin rash.
- Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms caused by dehydration.
- Heat Syncope: One becomes light-headed and sometimes faint. This is caused by dehydration resulting in decreased blood flow to the brain.
- Heat Exhaustion: Signs include weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, and clammy skin. This happens when the body loses too much water creating an electrolyte imbalance.
- Heatstroke: Signs of a heatstroke include a rapid pulse, hot, dry skin, mental confusion, and temporary vision/hearing impairments. This can lead to brain damage or even death if not treated promptly and properly.
Click here to see recommended actions by employers as well as employees for the above conditions. Thank you Steel Erectors of America for this timely and educational information!
For additional information related to heat safety from OSHA, click here.
If you or your company have questions or a legal matter related to construction or employment and labor law issues, please contact Anderson Jones Attorneys by email or phone at (919) 277-2541.