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Preventing Heat Related Injuries

In the last few weeks I have participated in two lost time injury investigation reviews. Fortunately the employees had fully recovered and returned to work but in some ways we were lucky. In most cases with injuries we can readily determine where an unsafe act occurred and then communicate to everyone how we can avoid a similar injury, but in the case of these two lost time injuries we could not point to any simple cause. The two I am speaking of occurred during hot weather and were diagnosed as heat exhaustion. What was the cause?

We could say the hot weather, but work goes on day after day during work season and the weather is equally as hot with no heat injuries. Maybe we could say they both occurred after eating a big lunch so that is the reason? Maybe they didn't drink enough water or other liquids? Each of these can be a contributing factor but it is not easy to predict how each person will be affected by the heat and other factors. So what can we do?

The first line is personal responsibility. We have to make sure we take in a lot of liquids if it is hot, especially when the humidity is high. If you feel like you are becoming overheated take action. If you fail to do so it could result in serious consequences. If you see someone else that appears to be overheating help them immediately! Recent bulletins have talked about the symptoms and treatment of heat related conditions. Review them again if needed. Also each crew and or location should have personnel trained in first aid who could help if a heat related condition occurs. We also contacted the Tennessee Titans football team to see what they suggested based on their experience with the team.

First they said to do what you could to protect employees from the heat. The use of umbrellas of equipment workstations as an example. Second they said drink plenty of fluids water and/or sports type drinks. Water is recommended at least 8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes. Drink water before you become thirsty. Once you are thirsty during hot weather the body is already in need of fluids. Another idea was to have a cooler with ice and small towels inside which could be wrapped around the neck. Their final recommendation was for each of us to be aware of symptoms and help each other to not get overheated.

We must work together to prevent more unnecessary cases of heat related injuries. If you have any questions about heat related conditions contact the safety department. If you have any suggestions on methods you have found helpful in dealing with the heat share them, but remember the first line of defense is personal responsibility. Both you and your team are hurt when you allow yourself to be overcome with heat.